'Stay in That Lane and Know That the More You Give, the More You Receive', Says Mnangagwa to Chivayo
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa praised controversial tycoon Wicknell Chivayo for his "philanthropy" at a recent apostolic sect event.
- Mnangagwa urged Chivayo to continue his giving, stating "the more you give is the more you receive."
- Chivayo's lavish lifestyle, including private jets and global holidays, contrasts sharply with the economic struggles of most Zimbabweans, yet Mnangagwa's public endorsement suggests he is untouchable.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has publicly lauded controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, describing him as a "giver" and urging him to continue his alleged philanthropic activities. Speaking at a national event for an apostolic sect in Harare, Mnangagwa encouraged Chivayo, who is known for his ostentatious displays of wealth and close ties to political figures across Southern Africa, to persist in his charitable endeavors.
"Stay in that lane and know that the more you give is the more you receive. Give and it shall be given to you," Mnangagwa told Chivayo. Despite holding no official public position, Chivayo is frequently seen in close proximity to the President. Mnangagwa has consistently defended Chivayo against accusations of impropriety, previously challenging anyone with evidence of illegal activities to report it to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission or the police.
I appreciate the work being done by Chivayo in our community. He is a giver and continues to gift members of our community.
Chivayo's extravagant lifestyle, marked by holidays in luxury resorts, designer clothing, high-end vehicles, and recently a Gulfstream private jet, has drawn significant attention and criticism, particularly as many Zimbabweans struggle with economic hardship, surviving on meager incomes. This lavish spending stands in stark contrast to the daily realities faced by the majority of the population.
While reports have indicated that the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission may have investigated Chivayo in the past, President Mnangagwa's strong public endorsement appears to shield him from accountability. This support comes despite past remarks by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, who reportedly described Chivayo using the slang term 'Chigananda,' meaning a corrupt individual. Chivayo has also been seen associating with prominent leaders in South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, and Zambia.
Stay in that lane and know that the more you give is the more you receive. Give and it shall be given to you.
Originally published by AllAfrica Zimbabwe. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.