Wicknell Chivayo Retracts US$3.6m Parliament Pledge, Proposes New US$5m Community Fund

Harare – Businessman Wicknell Chivayo has broken his silence following widespread criticism of his controversial US$3.6 million donation pledge to parliamentarians, announcing a retraction of the proposal and a shift toward a revised US$5 million community-focused fund.

The initial pledge, unveiled on Zimbabwe Independence Day, sparked backlash from political figures, including the ZANU-PF Youth League, who warned that such a move could undermine the independence of Parliament.

In a detailed Facebook statement, Chivayo insisted that he is “not a politician”, but rather a businessman and philanthropist acting in good faith.

“My gesture was never meant to influence Parliament or create parallel structures,” he said, adding that the donation was intended to support constituency development and celebrate Zimbabwe’s independence.

He also praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa, aligning his actions with the government’s Vision 2030 agenda and broader national development goals. Chivayo further highlighted his philanthropic footprint, claiming he has spent over US$200 million on humanitarian initiatives across Zimbabwe and other parts of Africa.

The controversy intensified after senior party figures, including John Paradza, publicly criticised the proposal, arguing that donations routed through Parliament risk eroding institutional integrity. Political analysts say the concerns were largely about perception rather than intent.

“Even if well-meaning, direct financial pledges to legislators can raise questions about influence and accountability,” said Harare-based governance expert Dr. Blessing Vava. “Institutions must be protected from any appearance of undue influence.”

Acknowledging the backlash, Chivayo conceded that he had overlooked key institutional protocols and sensitivities, expressing regret over both the timing and structure of the initial pledge.

“I take full responsibility for not fully appreciating the implications,” he said.

He confirmed that the US$3.6 million Parliament donation has been withdrawn, replacing it with a US$5 million fund that will instead be channelled through provincial leadership structures. The revised approach, he said, is designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and alignment with established governance systems.

Chivayo used the statement to reaffirm his loyalty to the ruling ZANU PF, stressing the importance of unity and internal consultation.

“We must always be guided by party principles, discipline, and respect for institutions,” he noted, adding that internal dialogue remains key in resolving such matters.

While the revised proposal has softened some criticism, debate continues over the role of private philanthropy in public governance. Experts say the episode highlights the need for clear frameworks governing political donations and public-private engagement, particularly in developing economies.

“Philanthropy is important, but it must operate within transparent and accountable systems,” said Dr. Vava.

Chivayo’s response signals a strategic recalibration, as he seeks to align his philanthropic ambitions with political and institutional expectations. While questions remain, the move to redirect funds may help ease tensions and restore confidence in the process.

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