Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, key suspects in the US$40 million Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) tender scandal, have stated that they are currently out of the country and therefore unable to present themselves for questioning or arrest by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC). ZACC is actively investigating this corruption case, which involves the misuse of millions of taxpayer dollars for personal gain. Chimombe and Mpofu’s legal representatives, Antonio & Dzvetero Legal Practitioners, have communicated their clients’ whereabouts to ZACC, assuring that they will cooperate upon their return.
The scandal has implicated several high-profile individuals, including Chimombe and Mpofu, who are reportedly in China. In addition to these two, ZACC’s investigation extends to Wicknell Chivayo, another central figure in the controversy. Chivayo, an ex-convict, is also currently out of the country. His involvement in the case has heightened the scandal’s profile, given his alleged connections with influential government officials.
ZACC is determined to thoroughly investigate the scandal, which has embroiled ZEC chair Priscilla Chigumba, Central Intelligence Organisation Director-General Isaac Moyo, and Chief Secretary to Cabinet Martin Rushwaya, among others. The commission has uncovered additional evidence that strengthens the case against the suspects. ZACC has vowed to pursue the investigation without bias or favoritism, pledging to leave no stone unturned.
Wicknell Chivayo’s close association with President Emmerson Mnangagwa has added another layer of complexity to the investigation. Chivayo claims to have significant influence over the President, which raises concerns about potential interference or protection. Nonetheless, ZACC has emphasized its commitment to an impartial and exhaustive inquiry, aiming to hold all involved parties accountable, regardless of their status or connections.
As the investigation progresses, ZACC’s resolute stance on tackling corruption within the government and its agencies will be critical. The commission’s efforts to bring Chimombe, Mpofu, Chivayo, and other implicated officials to justice will be a significant test of its independence and effectiveness in combating high-level corruption in Zimbabwe.
