Controversial Businessman Wicknell Chivayo to Testify in High-Profile US$7 Million Fraud Case
Harare, Zimbabwe – October 29, 2024
Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo is set to be called to testify in a high-stakes fraud case involving fellow businessmen Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe, who face charges of defrauding the government in a US$7 million scandal. Mpofu and Chimombe, who are implicated in a scheme allegedly tied to the Presidential Goats Pass-on Scheme, have requested Chivayo’s testimony as part of their defense strategy.
Mpofu and Chimombe have identified four key witnesses to support their defense, including Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) chairman Michael Reza, investigating officer Henry Chapwanya, acting chief public prosecutor Tendayi Shonhai, and Chivayo. While Chivayo is not directly linked to the fraud case, his testimony is being sought to highlight alleged selective prosecution concerns.
The defense claims that Mr. Reza interfered with their right to bail after the State initially agreed to conditions including title deed submissions, passport surrender, and a US$1,000 bail payment each. This interference, they argue, constitutes a violation of their constitutional rights. The defense further alleges that their prosecution is orchestrated by external forces with ulterior motives, branding the charges as unlawful imprisonment due to their inability to meet contractual obligations.
Under cross-examination from prosecutor Whisper Mabhaudhi, Mpofu and Chimombe conceded that Chivayo is not connected to the specific charges they face in the goat fraud case. However, they seek his testimony to draw parallels with another unrelated government tender, alleging a pattern of selective prosecution.
Justice Kwenda is set to review the constitutional questions raised by the defense, which could lead to a referral to the Constitutional Court. The outcome of these arguments may determine whether the case proceeds to trial.
Chivayo, known for his controversial business dealings and high-profile lifestyle, has been no stranger to legal scrutiny himself. His involvement as a witness in this case adds another layer of intrigue to an already complex trial that has attracted significant public attention.