Mnangagwa Angers Citizens After Claiming Chivayo Is A Man With Golden Heart – Eduzim News

Tinashe Sambiri– President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Wednesday publicly lauded controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, raising concerns over the close ties between the government and a figure long associated with questionable tenders.

Speaking at State House, Mnangagwa said, “This morning, I had the distinct pleasure of receiving a generous donation of 10 brand new, state-of-the-art ambulances equipped with the latest medical technologies including respirators, oxygen delivery systems, defibrillators and advanced patient monitoring units.”

He also highlighted additional support, noting, “In addition, I handover 200,000 litres of diesel, which will directly support the effective deployment and sustained operation of these life-saving units.”

Mnangagwa praised Chivayo as “an astute and maverick young businessman who has a golden heart and continues to tirelessly support various key Government programmes under Vision 2030.”

He added, “I extend my sincere appreciation to @wicknellchivayo for this gesture, which exemplifies the critical role of the private sector in complementing Government’s efforts to deliver quality service delivery in the health sector.”

Critics argue that the praise signals troubling favoritism, pointing out that Chivayo has previously been linked to controversial tenders and failed government contracts.

One political analyst said, “Publicly lauding a businessman with such a murky track record undermines accountability and sends the wrong message about transparency in public procurement.”

Despite the goodwill gesture of ambulances and fuel, many Zimbabweans remain skeptical, viewing the event as an example of how government endorsements may blur the lines between public service and private gain.

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