By Munacho Gwamanda- Acting President Constantino Chiwenga has issued a scathing warning to corrupt Zanu PF-linked elites.
Speaking at the burial of Justin Mupamhanga at the National Heroes Acre on Monday, Chiwenga, visibly irate, denounced politically connected businessmen, whom he labelled “zvigananda” (leeches).
His remarks were widely interpreted without naming anyone as a direct attack on flamboyant businessman Wicknell Chivhayo, infamous for his controversial government tenders and ostentatious lifestyle.
Chiwenga lashed out at the so-called “mbingas” — individuals who have become symbols of corruption and greed in Zimbabwe. He said:
“We all swore to a shared future in which everyone had a place on the table, a place in the sun, for a culture of equal opportunity where every Zimbabwean served in equal measure. Zveubvanzu ubvanzu kudya kwemhumi takazviramba. Our Vision 2030 is for all of us, kwete dzamunoti mbinga, kuhondo taizviti zvigananda, those who grow big tummies through ill-gotten wealth and questionable morals.”
The term “mbingas” has become synonymous with individuals who exploit public resources to amass wealth, often flaunting their riches through luxury cars, opulent lifestyles, and political patronage.
Chivhayo, a self-styled tycoon with a penchant for gifting high-end vehicles to celebrities and politicians, has long been a controversial figure.
His involvement in questionable energy projects, including a multi-million-dollar solar tender that failed to materialize, has drawn public outrage.
Chivhayo’s allegiance to President Mnangagwa and his extravagant displays of loyalty have added to his notoriety, especially amid whispers of deep-seated divisions within Zanu PF.
The call to dismantle the culture of “mbingas” is long overdue as the country continues to grapple with economic collapse and widening inequality.
Critics suggest Chiwenga’s remarks may reflect simmering tensions between Mnangagwa’s camp and his own faction as the party wrestles with internal power struggles ahead of the 2028 elections.