The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) is actively investigating Wicknell Munodaani Chivhayo’s source of wealth, which has been under scrutiny due to his ostentatious displays of affluence. This investigation was initiated as early as May 2023, according to an internal memo that has surfaced.
In the leaked memo, dated June 23, 2023, from ZACC’s legal officer to Victor Masimba, manager of the asset forfeiture and recovery unit, it is stated that Chivhayo’s recent purchases of luxurious vehicles, showcased on social media for himself, his spouse, and church members, have raised suspicions of involvement in illicit activities.
Chivhayo himself shared the memo on social media, apparently in response to calls for ZACC to probe into his wealth, implying that ZACC’s efforts have yielded no incriminating evidence against him.
Insiders from ZACC have confirmed the authenticity of the memo and the ongoing investigation, although an official spokesperson declined to comment.
The memo reveals that ZACC has executed search and seizure warrants on two car dealerships in Harare, Auto Expo and Exquisite, seeking documentation related to Chivhayo’s vehicle purchases.
The investigation has also involved the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), which discovered seven luxury vehicles imported by Chivhayo within a nine-month period, with six imported in May 2023 alone. These vehicles include high-end models such as Range Rover Autobiography, Mercedes Benz S500, Rolls Royce Ghost, and others, all imported by a company linked to Chivhayo, IMC Plant Hire (Pvt) Ltd.
ZIMRA has noted that IMC Plant Hire (Pvt) Ltd appears to have tax arrears.
Furthermore, ZACC is examining Chivhayo’s acquisition of a property in the Crowhill neighborhood of Harare.
Chivhayo’s sudden wealth has been a subject of speculation, with journalist Hopewell Chin’ono suggesting it may have resulted from winning a lucrative tender with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) ahead of the 2023 general elections. The nature of this contract, allegedly for supplying food to ZEC officials nationwide, remains undisclosed.
Recent beneficiaries of Chivhayo’s generosity include prominent figures in the Zimbabwean music industry, such as Jah Prayzah, Seh Calaz, and Sandra Ndebele.
In June 2023, ZACC estimated Chivhayo’s unexplained spending at US$7 million, a figure that has likely increased since then. Upon completion of the investigations, ZACC plans to pursue an unexplained wealth order against Chivhayo and his associated companies.
