Wicknell Chivayo Denies ZIFA Vote-Buying Allegations, Calls Petition “Baseless”
Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo has vehemently denied allegations that his public pledge to support the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) under the leadership of Nqobile Magwizi constitutes “vote-buying” or violates the FIFA Code of Ethics.
This comes after a petition reportedly intended for submission to FIFA, accusing Chivayo of attempting to influence ZIFA’s electoral outcomes through his financial support.
In a strongly worded statement, Chivayo dismissed the claims as “baseless, misleading, and totally unfounded.”
“It has come to my attention that an alleged “PETITION” is being intended for submission to FIFA through social media, alleging that my public pledge to support ZIFA under the leadership of NQOBILE MAGWIZI constitutes “vote-buying” and violates the FIFA Code of Ethics. I REFUTE these allegations , which are BASELESS, MISLEADING, and totally UNFOUNDED. My commitment to Zimbabwean football has always been driven by a desire to see the sport THRIVE and reach its FULL potential, not by any ulterior motives to influence electoral outcomes.”
Also Read: Wicknell Chivayo Promises US$10 Million and Luxury Cars If Nqobile Magwizi Wins ZIFA Presidency
Wicknell Chivayo: “I Am Not Bound by FIFA Code of Ethics”
Wicknell Chivayo emphasized that he is not subject to the FIFA Code of Ethics, as he is neither a ZIFA official, board member, nor councilor.
He cited Articles 20 and 21 of the code, which govern the offering and accepting of gifts or benefits by individuals bound by the code, stating that they do not apply to him.
“I am a private businessman acting within the bounds of the law and out of a genuine commitment to the development of football in Zimbabwe,” Chivayo said.
He further argued that there is no evidence that Magwizi or any ZIFA officials have accepted or acted upon his offers, rendering the allegations “entirely unsubstantiated and without any basis.”
Denial of Political Interference
Chivayo also refuted claims that his support for ZIFA is tied to political interference involving Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU PF. While acknowledging his membership in ZANU PF, he stressed that his business operations and philanthropic efforts are conducted independently and funded solely from his personal and corporate resources.
“The attempt to politicize my contributions is a fabrication designed to sow division and discredit both myself and the party I support,” Chivayo said.
He described the allegations as “absurd, defamatory, and untrue.”
Anonymous Petition Dubbed “Malicious”
Wicknell Chivayo accused the anonymous petition of being crafted by a “well-known critic of ZANU PF and a personal adversary” who has consistently sought to defame him.
He pointed to the critic’s past objections, including criticism of his decision to offer musician Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo a house upon his return to Zimbabwe.
“The petition is nothing more than a continuation of these malicious efforts and should be treated as such,” Chivayo said.
He urged FIFA to dismiss the petition “with the contempt it deserves.”
Call for Unity and Support for ZIFA
Wicknell Chivayo expressed his unwavering support for Nqobile Magwizi, describing him as a leader with “integrity, business acumen, and passion for the sport.” He called on Zimbabweans to give Magwizi and his board a fair chance to lead ZIFA toward a brighter future.
“If the losing candidates are so heartbroken, I’m happy to meet them and apologize to them as well as agree on a gentleman’s private settlement.”
For the benefit of the sport, let’s give Mr. Magwizi and his board a fair chance to start their assignment and embrace the mandate before them. Enough said,” Chivayo said.