President Ramaphosa Separates Himself from Zimbabwean Businessman Wicknell Chivayo
Johannesburg – President Cyril Ramaphosa has addressed the criticism he faced regarding his association with a crime suspect during his recent trip to Zimbabwe, asserting that he was unaware of the individual’s identity.
The controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, currently under investigation in South Africa for potential fraud, was photographed alongside President Ramaphosa during his visit to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s farm in Kwekwe over the weekend.
Chivayo is being scrutinized in South Africa, primarily for alleged fraud and money laundering, and other financial crimes related to a significant Zimbabwe election materials procurement scandal.
The accusations focus on a South African printing firm, Ren-Form CC, which provided election materials, including ballots and voter management items to Zimbabwe’s Electoral Commission (ZEC) for the 2023 elections.
Zimbabwe’s Treasury paid Ren-Form over R1 billion.
However, a substantial portion—more than R800 million—was reportedly quickly transferred to bank accounts and companies linked to Chivayo.
South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre has examined the transactions, deemed them suspicious, and shared its findings with authorities from both nations.
Reports from earlier this year suggest that the Hawks’ investigation continues to be active, even though Zimbabwe’s anti-corruption agency reportedly closed its parallel investigation without establishing direct contractual links.
On Sunday, 3 May 2026, Chivayo was seen alongside President Ramaphosa and his Zimbabwean counterpart, President Mnangagwa.
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In response to the backlash, President Ramaphosa, via his spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, clarified that he was not aware of who Chivayo was.
The spokesperson informed reporters on Wednesday, 6 May 2026, stating: “The Presidency has noted with concern the reports that have emerged following the President’s visit to Zimbabwe, identifying an individual who is of interest to our law enforcement, who was also present during the visit.
“President Ramaphosa had no prior knowledge of who would attend the visit, nor was he acquainted with the individual in question.
“The President traveled to Zimbabwe solely for a meeting with his counterpart, and nothing beyond that.
“President Ramaphosa encourages our law enforcement agencies to persist in their investigations regarding these cases without fear or hesitation.”
While he refrained from revealing details about the discussions, Magwenya noted that President Ramaphosa undertook a working visit to Zimbabwe at President Mnangagwa’s invitation.
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“The visit provided both leaders an opportunity to discuss various issues of mutual and bilateral interest,” he added.
South Africa and Zimbabwe share a historically rooted relationship forged during their respective struggles against colonialism and apartheid.
The two nations also enjoy a vibrant political and trade relationship. In 2025, South African exports reached approximately U$4.30 billion, with agricultural products and machinery dominating the trade.
Both leaders decided to retreat to President Mnangagwa’s farm, creating a relaxed atmosphere outside the typical constraints of presidential formality and protocol.
“In addition to the planned meeting, President Ramaphosa was keen to understand how President Mnangagwa is supporting local farmers in the vicinity of his farm,” Magwenya stated.