Wicknell Chivayo announced on Thursday that he would reward the national cricket team, the Chevrons, with US$1 million in cash for reaching the Super Eights at the ongoing T20 World Cup.
However, Chivayo said the payout is subject to approval by the principal — a reference to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, whose blessing he has routinely cited before handing over his widely publicised gifts. He wrote on X:
“Whatever the final outcome will be for the CHEVRONS CRICKET TEAM, all I know is SO FAR, subject to approval by the PRINCIPAL, I already owe them 1 million USD in cash on their return.
“Beating very strong teams like Australia and Sri Lanka as well as qualifying into the TOP 8 can not just go UNNOTICED… Good luck against INDIA today.”
The announcement came as the Chevrons suffered a heavy defeat to India, effectively ending their hopes of reaching the semi-finals.
Zimbabwe’s run to the Super Eights had been remarkable. The Chevrons beat Australia, drew with Ireland, and pulled off a stunning win over co-hosts Sri Lanka to advance from the group stage.
Losses to West Indies and India on Thursday closed the door on a semi-final spot, leaving only a dead-rubber match against South Africa.
Chivayo has, in recent years, distributed tens of millions of dollars to a wide range of recipients, including army generals, religious leaders, sports clubs, and musicians.
The beneficiaries share little in common beyond their public profiles and, often, proximity to Zimbabwe’s political establishment.
Critics and analysts have struggled to discern a clear philanthropic rationale behind Chivayo’s giving.
Some observers link Chivayo’s largesse to Mnangagwa’s plan to extend his term from 2028 to 2030 through a constitutional amendment, suggesting that recipients of his gifts may be expected to support any such campaign.
Mnangagwa has dismissed such claims, describing Chivayo simply as a philanthropist and rejecting the notion that he acts as the president’s proxy.
More: ZimLive
Pindula WhatsApp Channel
Facebook Page
Leave a Reply