Tinotenda Hove – Controversial Zanu PF-linked businessman Wicknell Chivayo has sparked widespread outrage after announcing, in a flamboyant and self-congratulatory statement on Tuesday, that he is gifting a brand new vehicle to an opposition Member of Parliament.

Chivayo, often associated with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, made the announcement on Facebook in a post filled with praise for Budiriro North MP Susan Matsunga, whom he commended for publicly applauding the President during a recent event.

His declaration has triggered fierce criticism, with some accusing him of attempting to improperly influence an opposition lawmaker through lavish gifts.

In his lengthy post, Chivayo celebrated Matsunga’s remarks and framed his gesture as a reward for what he described as “political maturity.”

“GIVE CREDIT WHERE IT’S DUE…👏👏👏 Political MATURITY is demonstrated when leaders choose to serve beyond SLOGANS or partisan politics, but PRIORITISE the fundamental needs of the PEOPLE they serve,” he wrote.

He went on to attack opposition politics, claiming they are “deeply POLARISED, characterised by INDIVIDUALISM and a relentless refusal to acknowledge tangible DEVELOPMENT delivered by the RULING PARTY, ZANU PF.”

Chivayo credited Mnangagwa’s administration for what he called “TRANSFORMATIVE socio-economic development,” citing projects such as the “iconic TRABABLAS Interchange,” the “worldclass Beitbridge–Harare Highway,” and the refurbishment of major hospitals including “PARIRENYATWA.”

“I was however VERY IMPRESSED and wish to commend how HON. SUSAN MATSUNGA MP for Budiriro North demonstrated a rare level of POLITICAL MATURITY,” he said, referring to her praise of the President during the unveiling of boreholes under the Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme.

He added that despite being labelled a “SELLOUT” by some within the opposition, Matsunga had “chosen to put her CONSTITUENCY FIRST” by thanking the government for providing “CLEAN and SAFE WATER.”
In a move that has drawn the most backlash, Chivayo openly offered the legislator a luxury vehicle and cash.

“Subject to your OWN HEIRACHY in the CCC approving and even yourself agreeing, please GO AND SEE VICTOR at Exquisite Car Dealership and collect your brand new 2026 TOYOTA FORTUNER 4×4 2,4 GD6 that has been fully paid for,” he wrote.

“You will also receive US$50,000 to be channeled towards COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT and EMPOWERING the youth and women in Budiriro North.”
While attempting to defend the gesture, Chivayo insisted it was not meant to lure Matsunga away from her party.

“I must CATEGORICALLY state that this is NOT an inducement or invitation for you to abandon your party CCC. No, NOT AT ALL!!! it is simply recognition of and APPRECIATION for your POLITICAL MATURITY and EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP as an MP,” he said.

He, however, left the door open for her to defect, adding, “Should you choose to join the WINNING TEAM, we will welcome you with OPEN ARMS.”

The post has since ignited heated debate across political and social circles, with critics questioning the ethics of such public “gifts” to elected officials and raising concerns about transparency and accountability.