Harare – Advocate Lewis Uriri and his wife have rejected a substantial gift package from controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, citing the need to preserve professional independence and integrity.
The package included a 2026 Range Rover Sport Autobiography valued at US$250,000, US$50,000 for fuel, and an additional US$50,000 described as a handbag allowance for Mrs Uriri. The total value was approximately US$350,000.
Uriri, a prominent lawyer, explained that accepting such gifts could reasonably create a perception of personal financial obligation extending beyond a concluded and fully remunerated professional engagement.
His decision has sparked a broader discussion about the ethics of accepting gifts from politically connected individuals, with former Member of Parliament and lawyer Fadzayi Mahere issuing a stern warning to professionals and religious leaders.
Mahere: ‘Independence is Key’
Mahere said the most important consideration is independence. She warned that accepting cars or cash from such benefactors makes recipients their servants, a situation no self-respecting professional would want. She also cautioned married men against allowing their wives to accept gifts, saying it could lead to awkward situations if the benefactor contacts the women directly.
Mahere’s remarks came after Uriri’s refusal. She described such arrangements as corrupt and dangerous, urging people not to be fooled by the generosity. She said those who accept become fools of the benefactor.
Chivayo, who has close ties to powerful political figures, has made headlines for his lavish gifts to various public figures, including church leaders.
Other Beneficiaries
Among those who have accepted similar gifts are Zion Christian Church leader Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi and his wife, who received luxury vehicles worth a combined US$590,000 — a 2025 Range Rover Autobiography SV for the Bishop and a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series for his wife.
United Family International Church founder Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa and his wife Ruth also accepted gifts, including a 2026 Rolls-Royce Cullinan for the prophet, a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon for his wife, and later a 2026 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 as an anniversary gift.
Prophet Ian Ndlovu of Divine Kingdom Baptist Ministries and his wife were gifted a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series VXR for him and a 2025 Toyota Fortuner 2.8D GD6 for her charity work.
Concerns Over Undue Influence
The contrasting responses have ignited debate about the influence of wealthy benefactors on professionals, clergy, and public figures in Zimbabwe. Critics argue that such gifts, particularly from individuals with political connections and controversial business dealings, can compromise independence and create implicit obligations.
Uriri’s principled stand has been praised by those who see it as a model of professional integrity. Mahere’s warning underscores the potential risks, especially when gifts extend to spouses, blurring the lines between personal generosity and strategic influence.
As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with corruption and patronage issues, the episode serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between personal relationships and professional ethics. The question remains whether more professionals will follow Uriri’s example or continue to accept Chivayo’s largesse.
