The US$40M ZEC Scandal: Mike Chimombe Accuses Wicknell Chivayo & REN-Form of Massive Fraud
A major political and corruption scandal is unfolding in Zimbabwe, centered on a lucrative US$40 million contract for election materials for the August 2023 general elections.
Anatomy of the Alleged Fraud
The dispute originates from a partnership between Better Brands, a company owned by Mike Chimombe, Scott Sakupwanya, and Moses Mpofu, and South African company REN-Form. The initial agreement stipulated that neither party would involve a third party without mutual consent. However, Chimombe alleges that REN-Form, in collusion with Wicknell Chivayo, unilaterally changed the contract to favor Chivayo's company, Intratek, excluding Better Brands from the deal.
Chimombe and Mpofu, in a scathing letter to REN-Form, accuse the company of breaching their agreement and manipulating the contract to enrich themselves and Wicknell Chivayo. They allege that REN-Form inflated prices on the contract, significantly overcharging the Zimbabwean government. For example, they claim that a quotation for US$2,673,360 was inflated to US$8,964,603, a staggering 235% increase.
Chimombe and Mpofu further claim that REN-Form, after receiving payments from the Zimbabwean government, immediately transferred over 66% of the money to Chivayo's Intratek accounts. They allege this constitutes money laundering, citing violations of both South African and international laws, and are demanding their 25% share of the funds paid to Chivayo.
The Key Players Involved
Amid the controversy, Wicknell Chivayo has been noted for his public displays of wealth, purchasing numerous cars and making large donations across Zimbabwe. Chimombe and Mpofu accuse Chivayo of using the illicit funds from the deal for this spending spree while failing to pay Better Brands their agreed-upon commission. They also claim that Chivayo is misleading people by suggesting he is sharing the money with high-level government officials, including the President.
Implications and Fallout
The accusations by Chimombe and Better Brands raise serious concerns about corruption and manipulation in government procurement processes, particularly in sensitive areas like elections. This incident highlights the urgent need for transparency and accountability in public procurement. It is imperative that the Zimbabwean government thoroughly investigates these allegations to ensure that public funds are not being misused and that the integrity of government processes is upheld. Furthermore, it raises questions about the role of Wicknell Chivayo in Zimbabwean business and politics, given his history of controversy.
Frequently Asked Questions
The core allegation is that a US$40 million contract awarded to REN-Form for the 2023 election materials was fraudulently manipulated. Mike Chimombe claims his company was illegally cut out of the deal by REN-Form and Wicknell Chivayo, who then allegedly inflated prices by over 200% to defraud the Zimbabwean government.
The main parties are:
- The Accusers: Mike Chimombe and his company Better Brands (co-owned with Moses Mpofu and Scott Sakupwanya).
- The Accused: South African company REN-Form and Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo with his company, Intratek.
- The Client: The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), on behalf of the Zimbabwean government.
The scandal raises significant concerns about the integrity of public procurement in Zimbabwe, especially concerning elections. If proven, the allegations could undermine public trust in the electoral process and government institutions, highlighting a critical need for greater transparency and anti-corruption measures.
Match Panels to Inverter
Tips for optimal system performance.
3.5kVA Inverter Load Guide
Explore residential setup capabilities.
Best Solar Panels Zimbabwe
Analysis of performance and durability.
Solar Companies Zimbabwe
Customer service and reliability.
Best Solar Panel Brands
Guide for home and business solutions.
Solar Installers Zimbabwe
Professional and certified installers.
3kVA System Cost Guide
Get pricing information for Zimbabwe.
5kVA System Cost Guide
Budget requirements for systems.
David (Solar Sales)