Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
THE Zanu PF Youth League has condemned the US$3,6 million donation proposed by philanthropist and businessman Mr Wicknell Chivayo to Members of Parliament for development projects in their constituencies.
In a statement yesterday, Zanu PF Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs Cde John Paradza said they had taken note of reports circulating on social media alleging that Mr Chivayo intends to donate US$3,6 million to National Assembly and Senate representatives for them to accelerate development in their constituencies.
“However, as the Youth League, we firmly take a stand against any attempts real or perceived to influence any arm of Government, be it the Executive, the Judiciary or the August House of Parliament.
“Parliament is the backbone of democracy, where the desires, needs and aspirations of the Zimbabwean people are turned into laws, oversight and accountability.
“If he wishes, Mr Chivayo can instead undertake developmental initiatives within communities directly, rather than through State institutions.
“We trust that he was either ill-advised or acted without a full appreciation of the proper role and functions of Parliament. Going forward, he must be guided accordingly,” said Cde Paradza.
He added that as the Youth League, they are expected to be guided by ethical standards to ensure integrity, transparency and public trust as they undertake legislative duties.
“We call upon Members of Parliament to also take a stand against any attempt to bring the Parliament of Zimbabwe into disrepute. We have an obligation to our constituencies, and the nation at large, to safeguard Zimbabwe’s democracy.
“As the Youth League, we are not only the vanguard of ZANU PF, but the nation. We are the pulse, the heartbeat of Zimbabwe, and as such we stand ready to defend, support and build on the successes of previous generations.
“The current political developments are born out of the will of the people, and cannot be forced or bought. This position is guided by our unwavering support for the leadership and vision of His Excellency the President of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
“It also reflects our confidence in the systems and leadership already in place under his astute leadership, which continues to deliver for the people of Zimbabwe,” Cde Paradza said.
He said they strongly believe that the proposed “donation” is misguided because Parliament as the legislature, stands as one of the most critical arms of the State and will never survive on handouts.
“It remains a respected and fully functional institution that operates within a well-established constitutional framework. It cannot be seen as being bought or swayed through donations be it in cash or kind, that appear transactional.
“Members of Parliament are already supported through constitutionally recognised mechanisms such as the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and at no point has the Government indicated any inability to meet these obligations. This clearly demonstrates that the Government, under His Excellency Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, has adequate capacity to support its programmes and representatives.
“The Devolution Fund, distributed to all provinces, is also being used to undertake a number of developmental projects. Devolution funds have successfully empowered local authorities to drive infrastructure development, particularly in rural areas, by focusing on health, education and water access. These efforts speak directly to the President’s commitment to inclusive growth and national development,” he said.
Cde Paradza said President Mnangagwa has consistently championed the strengthening of State institutions.
He added that the President’s leadership continues to inspire confidence and stability across all arms of Government.
“The Government, under His Excellency Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, remains fully in control of the country’s developmental agenda. The resources for meaningful development are firmly in place.
“These programmes are not tokenistic, but transformative, reflecting a Government that is both capable and committed to delivering tangible results for its people. He has shown that he is keen on changing people’s lives. His administration continues to prioritise policies that uplift communities and improve livelihoods across the country.
“His Excellency Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s administration has focused on infrastructure development, agricultural empowerment (Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme), and mining sector growth since 2018,” Cde Paradza said.
The Youth League pointed to key achievements that include construction of major roads such as the Harare-Beitbridge Highway, upgrading of airports, construction of new dams, establishment of rural health clinics, digitalisation of schools, and implementing currency reforms, “all aimed at achieving an upper-middle-income economy by the year 2030”.
“These milestones are a testament to the President’s results driven leadership. Zimbabwe’s developmental trajectory is guided by structured policy, fiscal discipline, and institutional coherence under President Mnangagwa’s leadership.
“In conclusion, we urge Parliament to refuse this donation, in recognition of the Government’s clear capacity and ongoing efforts to deliver development in a structured and sustainable manner.
“The vision of a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous Zimbabwe, championed by His Excellency the President Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, must remain the guiding principle in all national endeavours. As the vanguard of the party, we call upon those who want fictitious tactics, bringing the name of the President into disrepute, to stop forthwith.
“There are always correct procedures which need to be followed when making such donations to Parliament. The League will not hesitate to reprimand anyone bringing the name of the President of Zimbabwe (in)to disrepute,” said Cde Paradza.
Cde Paradza said Mr Chivayo has done a great job of helping Zimbabweans, adding that indeed he is entitled to do so.
“As the Youth League, we are not opposed to Mr Chivayo’s broader philanthropic activities; he is at liberty to extend his generosity to any political party or individuals of his choice,” he said.
“As a citizen of this great nation of Zimbabwe, which is working towards the fruition of an upper-middle-income economy by the year 2030 (Vision 2030), his contributions towards this vision are most welcome. Not just his, but any contribution by any individual is welcome, as long as it is channelled responsibly and correctly.”
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Where does he get all this cash? This economy cannot support such extravaganza that Chivayo is known for. It is however the height of hypocrisy for ZANU-PF Youth League to associate with Chivayo on party level then try to stand upright when it comes to state institutions. ZANU-PF is the government. The Youth League should know that if it is opposed to Chivayo doling out his cash to government institutions, it must keep him away from doing the same to ZANU-PF. ZANU-PF is the governing party.