Tinotenda Hove

Norton Member of Parliament Richard Tsvangirai has firmly denied claims that he accepted a residential stand from the government, amid growing concerns over alleged attempts to bribe opposition MPs ahead of a possible impeachment motion against President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Tsvangirai’s name appeared on a reported list of MPs who were allocated residential stands by the government—an action widely criticized as a strategy to weaken parliamentary resistance and win over lawmakers from across the aisle. The allocations have sparked accusations of corruption and vote-buying.

However, in a statement released Saturday, Tsvangirai strongly refuted the allegations, maintaining that he has not received any land or inducement.

“The facts are: I have not received any stand or bribe from anyone,” said Tsvangirai. “I do not support any amendments that seek to extend the presidential term limit.”

The allegations come at a sensitive political moment, with speculation swirling around potential constitutional changes aimed at removing presidential term limits—something critics fear could pave the way for President Mnangagwa to remain in power beyond 2028.

While some opposition MPs have remained silent amid the controversy, Tsvangirai’s swift response appears aimed at distancing himself from any perception of complicity.

The issue has reignited debate about transparency and ethics in Zimbabwe’s parliament, with civil society groups calling for a public audit of all land allocations made to legislators.

As pressure mounts, the government has yet to provide an official comment on the full list of beneficiaries or the criteria used for the allocations.