Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
BUSINESSMAN and philanthropist Wicknel Chivayo has urged the Highlanders executive to exercise financial prudence and ensure accountability after announcing a US$250 000 cash injection into the Bulawayo giants.
Chivayo, who has emerged as one of the biggest individual benefactors of Zimbabwean football, said while he was willing to support Highlanders, his financial assistance should not be viewed as an entitlement.
Posting on his Facebook page, Chivayo said he had also given Scottland FC a US$100 000 winning bonus following their 1-0 victory over Eswatini side Nsingizini Hotspurs in the first leg of their Caf Champions League preliminary round tie at the National Sports Stadium on Sunday.
He said his financial support came with an expectation that beneficiaries would uphold high standards of professionalism and accountability.
“Where I personally commit substantial resources, I reserve every right to expect high standards, professional conduct and responsible leadership.
“The same principle applies to Highlanders FC. I expect the players to publicly conduct themselves in a manner befitting that great institution, and I equally expect the executive to demonstrate sound management, proper governance and clear records showing how the funds I provide are being utilised,” said Chivayo.
He said there should be no confusion over the utilisation of funds he provides, warning that he could withdraw his support if he was not satisfied with the manner in which his money was being handled.
“Where my money is being spent, there must be satisfactory explanations and proper justification, not confusion or any discord.
“If I am not satisfied, I reserve the right to pull the plug without notice. Voluntary sponsorship must never become an entitlement. With the greatest respect, I don’t owe anyone anything,” he said.
Chivayo said he had only agreed to release the additional US$250 000 following the intervention of a senior politician from Matabeleland whom he holds in high regard.
“In fact, it was only last week, following the intervention of a senior politician from Matabeleland whom I hold in the highest regard, that I agreed to release a further US$250 000 this week towards Highlanders,” he said.
Chivayo said his commitment to Zimbabwean football and charitable causes remained unwavering, but insisted that financial support should be accompanied by discipline, responsibility and tangible results.
“I promise I will try and continue supporting Zimbabwean football wherever I believe my contribution can make a meaningful difference. I spend willingly and wholeheartedly, but I will never surrender my right to ask questions about conduct on the field and stewardship off it,” said Chivayo.
The latest financial injection comes at a time when Highlanders have been grappling with financial challenges, with the club relying on various interventions to meet its obligations and keep its football operations running.
Chivayo’s latest remarks are likely to put the Highlanders executive under increased scrutiny over the management and utilisation of funds, as the benefactor makes it clear that his continued support will be tied to accountability and responsible stewardship.
