Chivhayo Backtracks on Parliament Pledge Amid “Buying Influence” Backlash

Businessman Wicknell Chivhayo has dramatically reversed his controversial US$3.6 million pledge to Parliament following a backlash from within the ruling ZANU-PF, where some officials warned the move could be seen as an attempt to buy influence.

ZANU-PF Youth League leader John Paradza was among those who raised alarm, questioning both the process and implications of the donation.

Under mounting pressure, Chivhayo has now withdrawn the parliamentary pledge and announced a revised US$5 million package—to be channelled directly into grassroots development projects across all 10 provinces.

“I have listened, reflected and taken guidance,” Chivhayo said, conceding his initial approach failed to fully respect institutional protocols.

He maintains the funds are strictly philanthropic and aligned with national development goals under President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.

The dramatic U-turn shifts the funding from Parliament to provincial structures, with US$500,000 allocated per province, in what analysts see as an attempt to defuse political tension while maintaining influence at grassroots level.

More to follow…