Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart has voiced his disapproval of football legend Peter Ndlovu’s acceptance of a BMW valued at R2.6 million from Wicknell Chivayo, a former convict associated with dubious state contracts.
The gift was announced by Chivayo on Monday, who invited Ndlovu to pick up the vehicle from a dealership in Sandton. Ndlovu expressed his gratitude, calling the gift “the best achievement” of his life.
Coltart criticized Ndlovu’s decision, emphasizing the responsibilities that come with being a public figure. He urged Ndlovu to consider the origins of the funds used for the luxury vehicle, given Chivayo’s controversial reputation. “I am sad that Peter Ndlovu has had to sully his fine name in this way. Celebrities have a duty to ask the question – where did the money come from to buy these vehicles?” Coltart stated.
Former Zengeza West MP Job Sikhala also cautioned celebrities about accepting gifts from Chivayo, warning that ZANU PF may later expect significant favors in return. He remarked, “Mari ye ZANU PF unoidya nemuseredzo. Siyanai nazvo vakomana. Zvatiri kunzwaka tichaonerera. We will be spectators!!!”
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Adding her voice to the discourse, former Mt. Pleasant MP Fadzayi Mahere expressed her concern over public figures celebrating gifts from individuals with corrupt backgrounds. She took to X to voice her thoughts, stating that it is unacceptable for adults to seek and celebrate such gifts. Mahere envisions a future where ordinary citizens can afford vehicles through legitimate means, emphasizing that public health systems should function efficiently without the need for corrupt dealings.
She declared, “In the new Zimbabwe, the economy will be strong and people will have decent jobs… This business of begging for and celebrating cars bought by corrupt convicted criminals who loot public funds will be a thing of the past.”
In recent weeks, Chivayo has also gifted cars to various artists, including Killer T, Leonard Zhakata, Mai Charamba, and others, raising further concerns about the impact of such gestures on the integrity of public figures.
