Businessman and political commentator Wicknell Chivhayo has launched a stinging rebuke against former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislator Fadzayi Mahere, arguing that Zimbabwe’s development will not be driven by calls for “new leaders” but by citizens who are willing to build, invest, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.
In a strongly worded post on his X account, Chivhayo said Zimbabwe’s progress hinges on action rather than animated political commentary, adding that the country must focus on leadership rooted in patriotism, unity, and practical results.
“Our future depends not on who shouts the loudest, but on who builds the strongest,” he wrote. “In this moment, we must ask ourselves: what kind of leadership does Zimbabwe truly need?”
Chivhayo emphasized that leadership is not determined by who criticises the most or who commands the biggest online following but by individuals who make measurable contributions. He dismissed Mahere’s recent statements as “noise” from people who comment from the sidelines without offering concrete solutions.
“We don’t need people like Fadzayi Mahere to remind us that we need new leaders. That’s not leadership — it’s commentary,” he argued. “What we need are patriotic citizens. It’s time we stop glorifying noise and start celebrating impact.”
The outspoken businessman further described patriotism as a commitment demonstrated through service, sacrifice, and real outcomes rather than slogans or emotional appeals on social media.
“We need leaders who invest in Zimbabwe, not just talk about it,” he said. “Leaders who unite, not divide. Leaders who inspire hope, not hostility. Zimbabwe’s future depends on it. We do not need new leaders.”
Wicknell Chivhayo Dismisses Fadzayi Mahere’s Remarks, Says Zimbabwe Needs Builders — Not Critics
Chivhayo’s remarks were prompted by a post from Mahere in which she stated that Zimbabweans aspire to prosperity, opportunity, and dignity — but that this cannot be achieved without discipline and reform. Her comments echoed her long-standing advocacy for institutional change, democratic accountability, and leadership renewal.
“We want to regain our standing in the community of nations, but we know that it shall take serious discipline and reform,” Mahere wrote.
For years, Mahere has been a prominent voice calling for a shift in Zimbabwe’s political culture, arguing that the country requires new leadership that respects constitutionalism, transparency, and good governance. Her message resonates strongly with citizens frustrated by corruption, economic stagnation, and the dominance of long-standing political elites.
Chivhayo, however, offered a sharply contrasting perspective. He insisted that Zimbabweans should focus on supporting the current leadership and national development initiatives rather than fixating on regime change narratives.
His comments reflect a broader ideological debate within Zimbabwe’s public discourse — one that pits calls for continuity and “patriotic loyalty” against demands for political reform and renewal.The exchange between Mahere and Chivhayo comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s political landscape remains deeply polarized. While the government promotes its “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” mantra and celebrates major investment deals, critics argue that economic challenges, corruption, and shrinking democratic space continue to fuel widespread dissatisfaction.
Chivhayo has in recent years positioned himself as a vocal defender of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration, often praising government initiatives and attacking opposition leaders whom he accuses of negativity and sabotage. His latest statements reinforce his belief that development hinges on citizen cooperation rather than political transition.
Mahere, on the other hand, represents a generation of opposition leaders who argue that Zimbabwe’s problems are structural and political — requiring deep reforms to create a stable, prosperous nation.
As Zimbabweans navigate persistent economic pressures and questions about the country’s political direction, the exchange between Chivhayo and Mahere underscores a growing divide over what leadership means in this era.
For Chivhayo, leadership is measured by investment, unity, and loyalty.
For Mahere and her supporters, leadership is defined by reform, accountability, and renewal.
Their contrasting views highlight the unresolved tensions at the heart of Zimbabwe’s political future — a debate that continues to shape conversations both online and in everyday life.
Source- BYO24
