President Ramaphosa Distances Himself from Zimbabwean Businessman Wicknell Chivayo
Johannesburg – President Cyril Ramaphosa has responded to the criticism he encountered regarding his connection with a crime suspect during his recent visit to Zimbabwe, claiming he was unaware of the person’s identity.
The controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who is currently being investigated in South Africa for possible fraud, was photographed with President Ramaphosa at President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s farm in Kwekwe over the weekend.
Chivayo is under scrutiny in South Africa for alleged fraud, money laundering, and other financial crimes associated with a substantial scandal involving the procurement of electoral materials in Zimbabwe.
The allegations focus on a South African printing company, Ren-Form CC, which supplied election materials, including ballots and voter management products to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for the 2023 elections.
Zimbabwe’s Treasury disbursed over R1 billion to Ren-Form.
However, a significant amount—over R800 million—was reportedly hastily transferred to accounts and firms linked to Chivayo.
South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre has investigated the transactions, deemed them suspicious, and communicated its findings to authorities in both countries.
Earlier reports indicated that the Hawks’ investigation remains ongoing, despite the closure of a parallel investigation by Zimbabwe’s anti-corruption agency, which did not find direct contractual connections.
On Sunday, 3 May 2026, Chivayo was spotted alongside President Ramaphosa and Zimbabwean leader, President Mnangagwa.
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In light of the backlash, President Ramaphosa, through his spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, clarified that he had no prior knowledge of Chivayo.
The spokesperson informed reporters on Wednesday, 6 May 2026, stating: “The Presidency has taken note of the concerning reports that have surfaced following the President’s visit to Zimbabwe, highlighting an individual of interest to our law enforcement who was present during the visit.
“President Ramaphosa was unaware of who would be attending the visit and was not familiar 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 continue their investigations regarding these cases without fear or hesitation.”
While refraining from disclosing the specifics of the discussions, Magwenya noted that President Ramaphosa made the trip to Zimbabwe at the invitation of President Mnangagwa.
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“The visit afforded both leaders the chance to discuss various issues of mutual and bilateral interest,” he added.
South Africa and Zimbabwe share a historically rooted relationship, cultivated during their respective struggles against colonialism and apartheid.
The two nations also share 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 opted to retreat to President Mnangagwa’s farm, creating a relaxed ambiance outside the usual confines of presidential formality and protocol.
“In addition to the planned meeting, President Ramaphosa was eager to learn how President Mnangagwa is supporting local farmers in the vicinity of his farm,” Magwenya remarked.