ZANU PF Youth League Rejects Chivayo Donation

The ZANU PF Youth League has strongly opposed a reported plan by businessman Mr Wicknell Chivayo to donate US$3.6 million to the Parliament of Zimbabwe.

In a press statement issued by the Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs, Cde Hon. John Paradza, the League described the proposed gift as “misguided” and a threat to the independence of the legislature.

The reaction follows social media reports alleging that the businessman intends to fund the august House.

While the Youth League acknowledged Mr Chivayo’s right to engage in philanthropy, they warned that State institutions must not operate on handouts.

“Parliament is the backbone of democracy,” the statement read. “It cannot be seen as being bought or swayed through donations, whether in cash or kind, that appear transactional.”

The League argued that the Government has adequate capacity to support its own programmes.

They pointed to existing mechanisms such as the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and the Devolution Fund as evidence of the State’s ability to drive national development without private interference.

The Youth League further suggested that if the businessman wishes to help, he should focus on direct community initiatives.

They expressed concern that such a massive donation to a branch of Government could be perceived as an attempt to influence the Executive, Judiciary, or Parliament.

“We call upon Members of Parliament to take a stand against any attempt to bring the Parliament of Zimbabwe into disrepute,” Cde Paradza added.

Hemphasised that the nation’s progress is guided by the structured policies and fiscal discipline of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration.

In its conclusion, the League urged Parliament to officially refuse the donation. They stated that they would not hesitate to reprimand anyone using tactics that bring the name of the President into disrepute.

The Youth League maintains that Zimbabwe’s path toward Vision 2030 must remain self-reliant and transparent.