Controversial Zimbabwean Businessman Wicknell Chivayo Secures $60 Million Namibian Elections Tender

Renowned Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has reportedly secured a lucrative US$60 million contract to supply election materials for Namibian national elections.

According to reports from Zimbabwean journalist and activist Hopewell Chin’ono, Chivayo has been awarded this significant tender for the November 27, 2024 elections. Chin’ono’s information is sourced from unnamed insiders within the Namibian government.

Past Controversies Surrounding Chivhayo

Hopewell Chin’ono, well-known for exposing corruption in Southern Africa, revealed that this latest contract comes after Chivayo’s involvement in a contentious election materials deal in Zimbabwe.

The Zimbabwean contract, which attracted controversy, reportedly led to a public fallout between Chivayo and his business partners, Mike Chimombe and Mose Mpofu. Both Chimombe and Mpofu are facing legal charges in Zimbabwe related to an alleged misuse of funds.

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Wicknell Chivayo wins Namibia Elections tender-Image Source@X

Chimombe and Mpofu were accused of embezzling substantial sums of money from a fund for rural development projects, particularly for purchasing goats intended for distribution in rural Zimbabwe. These allegations have resulted in their ongoing detention as they await trial without bail. Chinono’s reports indicate that Chivayo’s association with these individuals has further tainted his reputation, sparking concerns about the integrity of his business dealings.

Political Reactions in Namibia

The decision to award such a high-profile and valuable tender to Chivayo has prompted critical reactions from various Namibian political observers. Several opposition parties have voiced concerns, calling for transparency and accountability in the tendering process. Many have expressed unease over the potential implications of this deal on the credibility of Namibia’s upcoming elections.

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Calls for Transparency Amid Scrutiny

The Namibian Electoral Commission has not yet made any official statements regarding the deal with Chivhayo, leaving questions about how this contract was awarded. This silence has only fueled speculation and further scrutiny, especially in light of Chivayo’s controversial past. Opposition leaders and civil society groups demand that the electoral commission clarify the circumstances of the deal to ensure the electoral process remains fair and impartial.