Wicknell Chivayo Donations Could Be Illegal: David Coltart Warns Highlanders And Others
Prominent lawyer and opposition senator David Coltart has warned that individuals and organisations receiving large donations from controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo could face criminal prosecution and jail under Zimbabwe’s anti-money laundering laws.
Speaking on X on 12 June 2025, Coltart warned that receiving money suspected to be the proceeds of crime could amount to a criminal offence under Zimbabwean law.
“Section 8 of the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act (Chapter 9:24) needs to be reflected upon by all people and institutions who have received large donations/gifts recently from dubious sources,” Coltart posted.
“The section makes it a criminal offence for any person to ‘acquire, use or possess property’ if they ‘know or suspect’ that such property is the proceeds of a crime. Corruption is a crime and any money which is acquired as a result of corruption is a proceed of crime.”
- Also Read: Sir Wicknell Chivayo Reveals How He Selects People To Gift Cars To, Outlines How Exceptions Are Made
‘Ignorance won’t protect anyone’
Coltart’s comments follow mounting concerns about the origins of Chivayo’s funds, after the businessman donated US$1 million (about R18.5 million) to Highlanders FC and gave US$250,000 (about R4.6 million) upfront to support the club’s operations.
“Whilst those receiving these gifts may believe they are immune from prosecution, the fact remains that potential crimes are being committed, not just by the donor but by the donees as well,” Coltart cautioned.
He explained that under the law, even suspicion about the source of donated funds could be grounds for prosecution.
“If anyone even suspects that the money which paid for the gift is the proceeds of corruption, then they should decline such gifts or assistance if they wish to avoid committing an offence,” Coltart said.
Chivayo linked to R800 million payments
This warning comes in the wake of revelations that over R800 million (US$41.9 million) was paid into Chivayo’s companies by South African firm Ren-Form, which received over R1.1 billion (US$61.1 million) from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Finance to supply election materials in 2023.
According to South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), the payments raised serious red flags. In its confidential report dated 30 October 2024, the FIC said:
“Ren-Form received over R1 billion from the Zimbabwe Ministry of Finance. More than R800 million was transferred to the business bank accounts of Wicknell Chivayo, mainly Intratrek Holdings and Dolintel Trading Enterprise.”
Chivayo allegedly used some of the money to buy luxury vehicles, fund personal travel, and make large payments to various South African firms, including car dealers, legal firms, and a make-up brand.
The report has been shared with South African authorities and Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit.
Law carries stiff penalties
Zimbabwe’s Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act stipulates that any person who “acquires, uses or possesses property” knowing or suspecting it is linked to crime commits an offence.
Under Section 8 of the Act, conviction can lead to a fine of up to US$500,000 (about R9.3 million), imprisonment for up to 25 years, or both.
The law also clarifies that a conviction for the original crime is not necessary to prove that the money was the proceeds of crime.
Coltart emphasised that Zimbabweans — especially public figures and institutions — must reflect deeply before accepting donations that may be tainted.
“Corruption is a crime, and any money which is acquired as a result of corruption is a proceed of crime,” he reiterated.
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission had earlier announced a probe into the controversial 2023 election procurement deal but has made little progress.
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The post People Receiving Donations From Wicknell Chivayo Risk Jail – David Coltart Warns appeared first on iHarare News.
