26 June 2024

KWEKWE, ZIMBABWE. The latest revelations of alleged widespread corruption in the Zimbabwe Election Commission (ZEC) involving loss of about US$40 million, linked to the 2023 Zimbabwean elections, allegedly orchestrated by Wicknell Chivayo, his associates and some business entities coupled with allegations of bribing politically exposed persons, has incited profound concern within the Anti-Corruption Trust of Southern Africa (ACT-SA). The pervasive nature of these allegations, if proven to be true, presents a dire threat to the fabric of our society and our collective efforts to combat corruption.

The size of the loss suffered, the involvement of high-profile persons and how prices for the supply of electoral material for the 2023 general elections were allegedly inflated to fatten the pockets of the individuals and companies involved is a matter of grave concern.

In light of the laws, policies, and institutional safeguards that Zimbabwe has adopted to address corruption, it is imperative that the relevant authorities investigate these allegations thoroughly and expeditiously, taking into account the purported involvement of not only Wicknell Chivayo but also any politically exposed person allegedly complicit in his corrupt activities. If the evidence confirms these assertions, those implicated must be apprehended and brought to justice, sending a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated in Zimbabwe, regardless of the stature of the perpetrators.

With regards to Wicknell Chivayo and the vehicles that he has donated and other assets he has accumulated, if it can be proven that these assets were purchased using the proceeds of corrupt activities, it would be incumbent upon the state to promptly seize and forfeit these assets. Whilst, Chivayo should be subject to ‘forfeit and seize’ proceedings but the others implicated with him should, where warranted, be subjected to ‘unexplained wealth’ proceedings. Such decisive and transparent action would serve as a powerful deterrent to those who engage in corrupt practices, signaling that the state is willing to pursue and recover assets that are derived from illicit means. Furthermore, such a move would send a strong message to the community at large that corruption will not be tolerated, and that there will be consequences for those who engage in such conduct.

For media enquiries, forward requests to director@anticorruptiontrust.org and boardchair@anticorruptiontrust.org

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