Wicknell Chivayo has withdrawn his proposed US$3.6 million donation to Parliament, reversing course after strong objections from the ZANU-PF Youth League and concerns over the integrity of legislative institutions.
The pledge, initially framed as support for constituency development, triggered debate over the appropriateness of private financial contributions to a key arm of the State. Critics argued that such funding—regardless of intent—risked creating perceptions of influence over Parliament.
In a statement, Chivayo said the gesture had been made in “good faith” and was intended to support national development, but acknowledged that it “may not have fully appreciated certain institutional sensitivities.” He added that “the channel through which the pledge was communicated was probably not the best,” expressing “deepest regret” for the unintended implications.
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The ZANU-PF Youth League had earlier rejected the proposed donation, warning it could undermine public confidence in Parliament.
The group stressed that “Parliament is the backbone of democracy and must operate without the shadow of undue influence,” adding that financial contributions directed at the legislature raise concerns about perceived external pressure.
While retracting the parliamentary pledge, Chivayo announced a revised US$5 million commitment to support grassroots development projects, to be channelled through party provincial structures subject to further consultation. The shift reflects an attempt to redirect private capital toward community-level initiatives while avoiding institutional controversy.
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