Chivhayo in fresh ED family photo-shoot
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Sean Mnangagwa, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Collins Mnangagwa Mnangagwa and Wicknell Chivhayo
A fresh picture of convicted fraudster and controversial businessman Wicknell Chivhayo alongside President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his twin sons, Sean and Collins, has surfaced on social media, further fueling speculation about his deep ties to the First Family and his role in state-linked corruption.
The image, taken in an opulent setting adorned with Zimbabwean national symbols, underscores Chivhayo’s proximity to power—an association that has allowed him to amass wealth through questionable government contracts.
From the botched Gwanda solar project, where he received millions without delivering, to alleged defence contracts, Chivhayo’s fortunes have skyrocketed while Zimbabweans endure worsening economic hardships.
Adding to the controversy, Chivhayo reportedly travelled to Kenya last weekend, allegedly delivering another tranche of illicit funds linked to his murky business dealings.
Sources with insider knowledge of his operations claim that his frequent trips abroad—often aboard his private jet—are part of a broader network of financial manoeuvres benefiting Zimbabwe’s ruling elite.
“Wicknell Chivhayo traveled to Kenya this afternoon with his fiancée to deliver yet another ‘loot.’ His flight history shows that he has been busy, frequently flying in and out of Zimbabwe, running his usual ‘errands,’” a source disclosed.
His recent meeting with Kenyan President William Ruto raised further eyebrows, with critics suggesting that Chivhayo is expanding his financial operations beyond Zimbabwe.
The visit reinforced suspicions that he is a conduit for illicit transactions, possibly leveraging political connections to facilitate cross-border money movements.
However, not everyone in ZANU-PF supports Chivhayo’s growing influence.
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga recently took a veiled swipe at individuals like him, warning those exploiting ties to the First Family for corrupt activities.
Speaking at a gathering, Chiwenga described some of Mnangagwa’s close allies as Zvigandanda—bootlickers who enrich themselves through unchecked patronage.
He suggested that their time was running out and hinted that some could face legal consequences if he takes over the presidency in 2028.
This statement has been widely interpreted as a direct challenge to Mnangagwa’s inner circle, particularly business figures like Chivhayo, whose controversial dealings continue to dominate public discourse.
The remarks highlight growing factionalism within ZANU-PF, as Chiwenga positions himself as a potential successor while subtly undermining Mnangagwa’s allies.
Despite mounting criticism, Mnangagwa has repeatedly defended Chivhayo.
When asked about their relationship and the businessman’s dubious financial dealings, Mnangagwa dismissed concerns.
“If there is anyone who has lost money to Chivhayo, they should report him to the police,” he told journalists—remarks widely seen as a tacit endorsement of Chivhayo’s activities.