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Picture: Chivayo\u2019s VIP Access Sparks Political Firestorm<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Tinashe Sambiri\u2013 The Action Democratic Movement (ADM) has raised sharp concerns over the presence of controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo within what appeared to be an official presidential delegation during last week\u2019s tour of stands at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair.<\/p>\n
Chivayo was reportedly seen positioning himself between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Botswana\u2019s leader Duma Gideon Boko, prompting questions about his role and level of access within government circles.<\/p>\n
In a statement issued on Saturday, ADM challenged what it described as blurred lines between private individuals and public office, calling for clarity and accountability. \u201cThe presence of a controversial businessman in what appeared to be an official presidential delegation at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair has raised serious questions that cannot be ignored. Zimbabweans deserve transparency, accountability, and respect for public institutions,\u201d the party said.<\/p>\n
The opposition movement questioned the authority under which Chivayo participates in high-level engagements alongside heads of state. \u201cThe people of Zimbabwe have a right to ask: what official role does Wicknell Chivayo hold in state affairs? Under what authority does he participate in high-level government engagements alongside Heads of State?\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n
ADM also revisited long-standing concerns surrounding the Gwanda Solar Project, urging authorities to provide clear answers regarding the use of public funds. \u201cZimbabweans are still waiting for answers on the Gwanda Solar Project and other controversial deals linked to millions of public dollars. Citizens deserve clear explanations on what happened to those funds, what value was delivered to the nation, and who must be held accountable for failed projects and alleged corruption,\u201d the party said.<\/p>\n
The movement stressed that governance must be anchored in accountability and transparency, warning against the capture of public institutions by private interests. \u201cPublic office must never be captured by private interests. National projects funded by taxpayers must be fully transparent and independently audited. No individual should be above accountability, regardless of political connections,\u201d ADM stated.<\/p>\n
It further called on state institutions to uphold professionalism and integrity, insisting that national resources must benefit citizens broadly rather than a privileged few. \u201cZimbabwe\u2019s resources must benefit ordinary citizens, not a connected elite enriching themselves while the majority suffer,\u201d the statement added.<\/p>\n
ADM warned that lack of accountability erodes public trust and called for a shift toward responsible leadership. \u201cA government that fears accountability loses the trust of its people. Zimbabwe needs leadership that respects institutions, protects public funds, and restores dignity to governance,\u201d the party said.<\/p>\n
Reaffirming its stance, the party concluded: \u201cADM stands for a Zimbabwe where leaders answer to the people, where corruption is confronted without fear, and where national wealth is used to create jobs, reliable electricity, quality healthcare, and opportunities for every citizen. The future of Zimbabwe must not belong to cartels and untouchable elites. It must belong to the people.\u201d<\/p>\n
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