The Presidency has moved to contain growing controversy surrounding Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent visit to Zimbabwe, insisting he did not know he would encounter a businessman wanted in South Africa.
The visit, which took place at the invitation of Emmerson Mnangagwa, has sparked political backlash over who attended an informal gathering at the president’s private farm.
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Presidency Says Ramaphosa Unaware Of Controversial Meeting
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the trip was a routine working visit focused on strengthening ties between the two neighbouring countries.
He stressed that Ramaphosa had no prior knowledge of the guest list and did not control who attended the private engagement.
“The President flew to Zimbabwe for a meeting with his counterpart and nothing else.”
The controversy centres around the presence of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, whose assets have been frozen in South Africa and who is under investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) for alleged money laundering.
DA Criticises Ramaphosa Visit Amid Zimbabwe Political Tensions
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has strongly criticised the visit, questioning its timing and political context.
DA MP Ryan Smith said the meeting came as Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF advances constitutional changes that could extend presidential term limits.
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“This visit takes place as the ruling ZANU-PF attempts to entrench its dictatorship in Zimbabwean law through the recently gazetted Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3, which would introduce far-reaching proposals to usher in extended and potentially limitless presidential terms.”
Smith also raised concerns about the arrest of opposition leader Tendai Biti, questioning South Africa’s response.
Concerns Raised Over Business Figures At Informal Engagement
Further criticism has focused on the presence of business figures, including Kudakwashe Tagwirei, at the gathering.
Smith questioned the implications, referencing past corruption inquiries in South Africa.
“What was the point of the R1 billion Zondo Commission if President Ramaphosa himself has learned nothing from the outcome?”
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Magwenya reiterated that the visit formed part of standard diplomatic engagement, allowing leaders to discuss issues such as trade, agriculture and regional cooperation within the Southern African Development Community.
He added that law enforcement matters involving individuals under investigation should proceed independently, without political interference.
The Presidency also rejected claims linking the visit to Zimbabwe’s internal political dynamics, maintaining that the focus remained on bilateral relations and regional stability.
Magwenya urged the public to rely on verified facts and avoid speculation that could misrepresent diplomatic engagements.
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