Zimbabwean musician Sandra Ndebele has found herself at the center of controversy after receiving a luxurious gift – a Mercedes Benz reportedly valued at $155,000 – from controversial businessman Wicknell Chivhayo. The singer proudly shared the news on her Twitter account, showcasing the extravagant present.
However, the joyous moment quickly turned into a heated exchange when investigative journalist Hopewell Chin’ono responded with scathing criticism. Chin’ono, known for his outspoken stance against corruption, accused both Ndebele and Chivhayo of being an “embarrassment” and a “stain on the body of our country.” He questioned Ndebele’s ethical stance, highlighting the dire state of public services, particularly healthcare, in the areas she represents.
Chin’ono’s tweet stirred up a public debate on social media, with opinions divided on whether public figures should be held accountable for their associations and gifts. The journalist’s direct and pointed remarks drew attention to the ethical implications of accepting gifts from individuals with questionable sources of wealth.
In response to Chin’ono’s accusations, Wicknell Chivhayo took to social media, dismissing the journalist as a “famous but poor idiot” who assumes every rich person acquired their wealth illicitly. Chivhayo defended the gift, stating that he had recently encountered Ndebele and decided to express his gratitude.
The ongoing controversy has reignited discussions about the transparency of wealthy individuals in Zimbabwe, particularly those associated with political figures. Questions about Chivhayo’s wealth and his pattern of gifting expensive cars to those aligned with Zanu PF have only intensified, adding another layer to the already complex narrative surrounding the intersection of politics, wealth, and public perception in the country.
