LEAKED AUDIO REIGNITES SCANDAL AROUND ZIMBABWE’S $100 MILLION ELECTORAL TENDER

A recently surfaced audio recording has rekindled interest in a substantial scandal involving the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec), a $100 million tender, and the interplay of high-profile figures and allegations of corruption. The recording features a heated exchange between businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his former business partner, Mike Chimombe, exposing a rift between the two over the management of the massive tender awarded in February 2023.

This tender, which became a hot topic ahead of Zimbabwe’s August general elections, was initially for services by South African printing firm Ren-Form but quickly devolved into a contentious issue as significant payments commenced in March. A critical portion of the contract, amounting to $40 million, was part of a larger scheme exceeding $100 million, involving Chivayo, Chimombe, and another associate, Moses Mpofu, who served as intermediaries in the deal.

As the funds started to flow, disputes among the trio erupted, with accusations of mishandling what appeared to be ill-gotten wealth. The intensity of these disputes is palpable in the leaked audio where both men accuse one another of betrayal and fraud.

The scandal’s background is deeply political and contentious. Chivayo, known for his close ties with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has reportedly been protected by his political connections, despite an active investigation by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc). This investigation not only targets Chimombe and Mpofu but also involves severe allegations of fraud and money laundering.

The legal troubles for Chimombe and Mpofu extend further, relating to their involvement in the dubious $88 million Presidential Goats Scheme, underscoring the rampant corruption within elite circles in Zimbabwe.

Adding complexity to the scandal, another audio recording had previously surfaced where Chivayo is heard boasting about his influence over President Mnangagwa and disclosing the involvement of various high-profile officials, including Zec chair Priscilla Chigumba, Central Intelligence Organisation Director-General Isaac Moyo, and gold magnate Pedzisayi “Scott” Sakupwanya. This indicates a deeply intertwined network of political and economic interests that could be influencing the nation’s governance.

The revelations from these audios are not merely about the individuals involved but pose significant questions about the integrity of Zimbabwe’s electoral processes. The ongoing Zacc investigation, spurred by these disclosures, hints at a potentially extensive inquiry that might unveil further corruption in the country’s political landscape.

As the investigative journalism outlet The NewsHawks continues to dig deeper, promising more revelations, the scandal stands as a stark reminder of the challenges facing anti-corruption efforts in Zimbabwe. With the upcoming general elections, the integrity of the electoral process remains in jeopardy, and the outcome of this investigation could profoundly affect the country’s democratic practices.

Public anticipation for further developments is high, raising crucial questions about the depth of corruption in Zimbabwe and whether a fair electoral process can be ensured amidst such controversies. Both Zimbabweans and international observers are keenly watching, hoping for a resolution that brings justice and transparency to a situation long shadowed by corruption.