Gold Leaf Tobacco chairman Simon Rudland has dismissed allegations linking him to alleged coup plots and political ambitions, calling them “malicious” and “baseless.”
In a statement issued on 26 March 2026, Rudland said the claims, which circulated on social media and were amplified by a now-retracted Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) report, were defamatory and damaging to his reputation.
He stressed that he has “absolutely no political ambitions” and no intention of seeking the presidency. Reads the statement:
“It has been brought to my attention that certain malicious allegations have recently been disseminated across social media platforms, specifically X (formerly Twitter), and further amplified by an erroneous report previously published by the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC).
“While I note the ZBC’s subsequent and formal retraction of said article, I find it imperative to personally address these baseless assertions to prevent any further distortion of the truth.
“I wish to place on record my unwavering and absolute support for His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe, Cde. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. I hold the President in the highest regard, not only as the leader of our great nation but as a brother.
“My commitment is to the development of Zimbabwe. I am fully supportive of the various economic and infrastructural milestones currently being spearheaded by the Second Republic, including the Constitutional Amendment Bill No 3. No interests lie solely in the industrial and economic progress of this country, contributing to its growth under the visionary leadership of President Mnangagwa.
“I categorically denounce any and all opposition elements seeking to sow seeds of discord or inspire insurrection within our borders.
“I have absolutely no political ambitions; I have no plans to seek the Presidency, nor do I wish to be associated with individuals or groups whose agendas are treasonous in nature.
“Attempts to link my name to “coup plots” or subversive activities are not only defamatory but are an affront to my character as a patriotic Zimbabwean. I distance myself entirely from any elements that seek to destabilise our peace and constitutional order.
“Zimbabwe is on a path of transformation. My focus remains on my business interests and contributing to the national vision of an upper-middle-income economy.
“I urge all citizens and media houses to disregard the “smoke and mirrors” tactics employed by those wishing to distract from the country’s progress.
“I reserve all my legal rights to pursue litigation against any party that continues to propagate these falsehoods.”
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