Nelson Chamisa Slammed For Silence On Wicknell Chivayo’s R800 Million Scandal
Former opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has faced a fierce social media storm after his response—or lack thereof—to the explosive R800 million election corruption scandal involving controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo. While Zimbabweans reeled from revelations of grand looting tied to the 2023 elections, Chamisa’s tweet about “bullet trains” sparked outrage, with critics accusing him of being out of touch with the nation’s struggles.
“Bullet Trains” Tweet Sparks Fury Amid Corruption Scandal
On Monday, 7 April 2025, Chamisa took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his vision of a futuristic Zimbabwe with high-speed rail networks. The post, which garnered over 653,000 views, was met with fierce criticism as citizens demanded his voice on the unfolding corruption scandal.
“A DAILY BULLET TRAIN TO & FROM WORK…You could literally work anywhere from any part of Zimbabwe. You could work in Bulawayo from Bulilima or Binga, or in Nyanga from Harare commuting daily. We can’t Hararerise everything. This we will bring to Zimbabwe in no time. Just imagine #NextZimbabwe—a modern New Great Zimbabwe we all yearn for and dream of. #ImaginationMonday #NextZimbabwe #ConvenienceEfficiency #HappyLifeForAll”
The timing of the tweet—just as Zimlive exposed Chivayo’s alleged R800 million windfall from a R1.1 billion government payment to South African company Ren-Form CC for election materials—left many questioning Chamisa’s priorities.
“Read the Room”: Social Media Erupts in Anger
Frustrated Zimbabweans flooded X with reactions, with many accusing Chamisa of ignoring the country’s most pressing crisis. Longtime supporters expressed disappointment, while critics demanded accountability.
Former Supporters Voice Disillusionment
“I have been one strong supporter of you as a leader @nelsonchamisa, but this is a lack of vision and timing. Grand corruption is exposed in the country, & you choose to talk of high-speed trains? Such actions make those of us who had hope in you start doubting our trust in you.”
– @Uncle_Tau
“You’re so out of touch with the people’s reality. Bullet trains are a very good infrastructure. However, our country is dealing with ridiculous corruption right now, and the cost of living is extremely high. How could you be talking about bullet trains?” – @andre_rabit
Calls for Leadership & Solidarity
Some urged Chamisa to show solidarity with citizens reeling from corruption, arguing that his silence was damaging his credibility.
“I don’t know if there’s any specific reason for this silence. Of course, tweeting won’t make the problems in Zimbabwe disappear, but it does reinforce solidarity, brings people together, and assures citizens that you’re in touch, that their pain is your pain too. I wouldn’t expect you to lead protests if you don’t believe they’re the best option for you. But communicating in solidarity is essential, and it’s not dangerous to you or anyone else. On a day when the nation is in shock over Wicknell’s grand looting, I don’t think tweeting about bullet trains is the most appropriate choice.” – @S_Harudzibwi
“Dear NC, Yes, you stepped away from politics. However, I believe it’s crucial to READ the room. As a leader entrusted with over 2 million votes—regardless of the outcome—aligning your public statements with the moment would be greatly appreciated. Too often, your stance seems out of step.” – @ChiheraStacey
Harsher Criticisms: “Are You Paid to Stay Silent?”
Others were far less forgiving, with some even suggesting Chamisa had been compromised.
“Chimbomira izvozvo iweee! Mari irikubiwa uchitawura zvisina basa. Get real Chamisa! People are angry!” – @bla_bidza
“Are you paid? Are you the regime enabler? How much are they paying you?” – @alArchY009
“This is Chamisa in a nutshell. Vacuous. Lacking gravitas. Wishy-washy. And I suspect it’s deliberate. I’ve come to the conclusion that Chamisa was bought by ZANU PF somewhere along the line. His popularity keeps the masses in check by making all these pointless promises.” – @NikNameMucci
A Delayed Response—But Was It Enough?
Roughly 24 hours later, Chamisa appeared to respond to the criticism by posting another tweet. Though he didn’t directly mention Wicknell Chivayo, Ren-Form CC, or the ZEC, his message was more aligned with the public mood:
“CORRUPTION STINKS—A FISH ROTS FROM THE HEAD…” he wrote on April 8.
“For almost 27 years, I’ve stood firm against corruption in all its forms. Not for applause, not for loves and likes, or to trend, but because I believe Zimbabweans deserve better… It’s no longer enough to simply point out the rot—we all live it.”
He added:
“It begins with changing the system that enables it. Not just a change of faces, but a total renewal of values and vows. Our vision is for a transformational and developmental government that serves—not steals. That builds—not bleeds. That empowers—not impoverishes.”
But for many critics, the response was too little, too vague, and far too late.
“Why couldn’t you say this the first time?” asked one user.
“You only tweeted this because you were dragged,” commented another.
While some supporters welcomed the statement, critics argued it was too vague and overdue.
“This is too little, too late. Why not name and shame Wicknell and ZEC directly? Leadership means calling out thieves by name!” – @Realbeefactor
“The emperor Nero at it again, chose to play the violin when the kingdom is burning.” – @TateChingozho
What’s Next for Chamisa’s Political Influence?
Chamisa, who garnered over two million votes in the 2023 election, remains a powerful political figure—even after stepping down from leading the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). But this controversy has reignited debates around his political instincts and willingness to engage when it matters most.
Once seen as the face of Zimbabwe’s opposition, his recent silence on major scandals has left many wondering:
Has he lost touch with the people’s struggles?
Is he deliberately avoiding confrontation with ZANU-PF?
