By A Correspondent

Controversial businessman and Zanu PF benefactor Wicknell Chivayo has fired back at Acting President Constantino Chiwenga, calling him a “failed politician” after Chiwenga’s anti-corruption remarks on Monday.

Speaking at the burial of former Deputy Chief Secretary Justin Mupamhanga at the National Heroes Acre, Chiwenga warned corrupt elements within Zanu PF, accusing them of enriching themselves through illicit means. He invoked the term zvigananda, a wartime label for individuals who amassed wealth dishonestly, and emphasized that Zimbabwe’s founding principles rejected greed and self-enrichment.

“Our Vision 2030 is for all of us, not just for those you call mbinga [tycoons],” Chiwenga stated. “In the liberation struggle, we called them zvigananda—those who grow big tummies through ill-gotten wealth and questionable morals.” While Chiwenga did not mention anyone by name, many saw his remarks as a thinly veiled attack on Chivayo, who has faced accusations of profiting from inflated state contracts.

Chivayo, not one to shy away from confrontation, took to social media on Wednesday to respond directly, vowing not to be intimidated. “I will always support President E.D. Mnangagwa and Zanu PF’s vision, and no individual, big or small, can instill fear in me. I will neither be moved by nor shaken by any veiled threats from failed politicians,” Chivayo declared.

Additionally, Chivayo sought to distance himself from a controversial letter that allegedly requested permission from local banks to withdraw up to US$20 million per month for undisclosed transactions.

Chivayo, a convicted fraudster who served time in prison in 2005 for money laundering involving R837,000, remains a prominent figure within Zanu PF. Despite his criminal background, he has continued to flaunt his wealth and secure lucrative government deals, raising ongoing questions about the party’s commitment to combating corruption.