Chaos Erupts as Chiwenga-Death Regalia Surfaces: Allegations Against Businessman Wicknell Chivayo Stir Controversy
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Zimbabwe was thrown into political chaos on Saturday night after ZANU-PF party members began circulating regalia—T-shirts and caps—bearing the inscription “Gudoguru,” a label that was notably used when the late General Perence Shiri was found dead under suspicious circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic. The controversial clothing, branded with imagery associated with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, has raised alarms about potential internal sabotage and deepening divisions within the ruling party. (see video below)
Columnist and outspoken critic Kerina Mujati quickly pointed fingers at businessman Wicknell Chivayo, accusing him of orchestrating the printing of the regalia as part of a sinister plot to entrap Chiwenga. According to Mujati, the circulation of the clothing suggests that forces within ZANU-PF are attempting to frame Chiwenga as plotting to overthrow President Emmerson Mnangagwa, using tactics reminiscent of those employed when Shiri was found dead. Chivayo, when approached, did not immediately respond to the allegations.
The distribution of the so-called “Chiwenga-Death” regalia has created a wave of speculation within Zimbabwe, with many interpreting the “Gudoguru” label as a bad omen. The use of the same label associated with the untimely death of Shiri has fueled concerns that Chiwenga may be the target of a political trap or an internal plot within ZANU-PF, potentially signaling a looming power struggle.
The timing of the regalia’s appearance—just ahead of a ZANU-PF conference—has heightened tensions, with various factions reportedly positioning themselves for influence. Vice President Chiwenga, who played a key role in the military intervention that ousted former President Robert Mugabe in 2017, has long been seen as a potential challenger to Mnangagwa’s leadership. The sudden appearance of the death-linked regalia has raised fears that Chiwenga’s life or political future may be in danger.
Political observers have drawn parallels to the events surrounding General Perence Shiri’s death, which remains shrouded in mystery. Shiri, a close ally of Chiwenga, was found dead in July 2020, with some suggesting foul play. The reuse of the “Gudoguru” label—one that was associated with Shiri’s demise—has amplified speculation that Chiwenga is being set up in a similar manner.
Dr. Masimba Mavaza, a ZANU-PF member and contributor, downplayed the allegations during a heated discussion on ZimEye, dismissing the regalia as the work of “mischievous elements” seeking to divide the party. “This is a desperate attempt to cause chaos within ZANU-PF,” Mavaza said. “Vice President Chiwenga has nothing to do with this so-called regalia, and Wicknell Chivayo is not behind it. This is simply another example of people trying to stir up trouble where there is none.”
Somewhat confirming Mavaza’s allegations, clearing Chivayo, the businessman was still to comment at the time of writing.
Despite Mavaza’s dismissal, however many within Zimbabwe remain skeptical, particularly given ZANU-PF’s history of internal power struggles and factionalism. The regalia incident comes at a critical moment for the party, with many suggesting this questions the stability of its leadership as Zimbabwe continues to grapple with economic hardship and political unrest.
Chivayo, a well-known businessman with close ties to top political figures, has yet to comment on the accusations. His silence has only fueled further speculation, with many wondering whether the regalia’s appearance was part of a larger scheme to shift the balance of power within ZANU-PF.
As the situation continues to unfold, Zimbabweans are left wondering whether the chaos surrounding the Chiwenga-Death regalia is a prelude to more significant upheaval within the country’s political landscape. With the ZANU-PF conference looming and tensions mounting, the nation watches anxiously for the next twist in this unfolding political drama.