HARARE, Jan 29 (NewsDay Live) - Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo has lashed out at critics, describing them as ‘failed politicians’ on social media in remarks seen as aimed at Acting President Constantino Chiwenga, marking an escalation in the war of words between opposing factions in the ruling Zanu PF party.
Zanu PF is in the throes of factionalism pitting the camp loyal to President Emmerson Mnangagwa against another perceived as loyal to his deputy.
Chiwenga who is acting in Mnangagwa’s absence on leave, took aim at corrupt elements in the ruling party that he accused of “growing big bellies” from proceeds of ill-gotten wealth in a speech at the burial of former Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Justin Mupamhanga at the National Heroes Acre on Monday.
Observers said this was targetted at ‘mbingas’ such as Chivayo.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Wednesday, Chivayo claimed that he would not be "moved by nor shaken by any veiled threats from failed politicians.”
"I will always support President E.D. Mnangagwa and ZANU PF's vision, and no individual, Big or Small, can instill fear in me to decide otherwise. I will neither be moved by nor shaken by any veiled threats from failed politicians," which critics said was likely a response to Chiwenga’s remarks.
The heated exchanges come at a time social media is awash with letters purportedly written by Chivayo asking local banks to allow him to withdraw as much as US$20 million per month for various transactions.
Chivayo, who has on several occasions been photographed together with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other regional leaders, however, disowned the alleged letters.
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At Mupamhanga’s burial, the two opposing factions openly attacked each other, with ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera leading a chorus of what were perceived as anti-Chiwenga songs.
* This story has been amended to correct the impression made by the original headline which suggested that Wicknel Chivayo was directly attacking Acting President Constantine Chiwenga. Any offense caused is sincerely regretted.
