KWEKWE – Deputy Finance Minister David Mnangagwa, son of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has denied speculation linking him to a possible takeover of the financially troubled Kwekwe United.
Reports have been circulating within football circles suggesting that the struggling Kwekwe-based outfit has attracted interest from some of the country’s most influential figures.
Among the names linked to a potential acquisition were Mnangagwa and prominent businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
It had been alleged that Mnangagwa sent representatives on two separate occasions to engage the club’s owner, Phil Makekera, with lucrative offers.
However, when approached for comment, Mnangagwa dismissed the claims.
“That’s not true,” he said in response to questions from this reporter, although some sources continue to insist he had shown interest.
Makekera also weighed in on the rumours, saying: “He (Mnangagwa) has never approached me with regards to that.”
Similarly, in November last year, Tagwirei publicly distanced himself from any intention to purchase the club.
Speculation around Kwekwe United has intensified after Makekera recently suggested there were “hidden hands” at play, deliberately hindering the club’s access to financial assistance.
He reportedly suspects some powerful individuals are attempting to financially strangle the club in a bid to force him into selling.
The situation remains unclear, with weekly rumours suggesting new sponsors could be coming on board, though none have been confirmed as yet.
Meanwhile, Makekera recently disclosed Kwekwe United requires nearly US$40,000 per month to operate smoothly.
He said this during a public apology he issued following the team’s failure to fulfill a fixture against Herentals recently after players protested over unpaid salaries and bonuses.
