Temba Mliswa Accuses Wicknell Chivayo of Abusing Presidential Links After Arrest of Ex-Wife Sonja Madzikanda

Former Norton legislator Temba Mliswa has publicly accused controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo of abusing his alleged proximity to President Emmerson Mnangagwa following the arrest of Chivayo’s ex-wife, Sonja Madzikanda, and her mother, Tabitha Madzikanda.

The high-profile arrests have sparked intense debate on social media, with critics questioning whether Zimbabwe’s law enforcement agencies are being drawn into personal disputes involving politically connected individuals.

In a strongly worded statement posted on X, Mliswa accused Chivayo, whom he referred to as “Moyo,” of undermining the dignity of the Presidency through what he called “blatant disregard for decorum.”

“We remain resolute in our commitment to safeguarding the sanctity of the Office of the President from those who seek to diminish its stature,” Mliswa wrote.

“Moyo, in particular, is ill-suited to accuse others of undermining the President, given that his own conduct has culpably contributed to this erosion.”

Mliswa further alleged that some individuals close to power were misusing state institutions, particularly the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), to settle personal scores.

“The baseless charges you have levelled against Sonja and her mother reflect a reprehensible misuse of authority by the police led by Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba,” Mliswa said. “The ZRP should refrain from being employed as a personal weapon.”

The outspoken politician warned that perceptions of selective justice were damaging public confidence in the government and creating the impression that powerful individuals enjoy protection while ordinary citizens suffer.

The controversy erupted after police confirmed the arrest of Sonja and Tabitha Madzikanda over allegations linked to fraud, cybercrime and the handling of a trust account reportedly established for Chivayo’s children. According to court reports, Tabitha Madzikanda, a senior executive at FBC Bank, is accused of attempting to alter signatories on a US$1.4 million trust account allegedly connected to Chivayo’s children.

Sonja Madzikanda reportedly spent two nights in police custody before appearing at the Harare Magistrates' Court alongside her mother on Wednesday. Their lawyer, Rungano Mahuni, said the pair were facing charges that include unauthorised distribution of content and allegations linked to undermining the authority of the President.

Outside court, Sonja briefly addressed journalists and supporters, saying: “It’s okay, I am okay.”

Legal analysts contacted by local media warned that the growing public fallout between Chivayo and his former wife risks eroding trust in Zimbabwe’s justice system if the matter is perceived as politically influenced. Online reactions across Zimbabwean social media platforms also reflected concern over the apparent intersection of politics, business and policing.

The arrests come amid an ongoing and highly publicised divorce and custody battle between Chivayo and Sonja Madzikanda, which has already spilled into South African courts over asset disputes and maintenance claims.

Temba Mliswa

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