Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Tino Machakaire, has issued what many interpreted as a veiled criticism of controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo following the arrest of Chivayo’s ex-wife, Sonja Madzikanda, and her mother, Tabitha Madzikanda.
Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Machakaire reflected on the responsibilities of fatherhood, respect for women and restraint during personal conflicts in comments widely viewed as directed at the highly publicised dispute surrounding Chivayo and the Madzikanda family.
“As a father, I believe one of the greatest responsibilities of a man is to honour and appreciate the woman who carries and nurtures the children that become part of his family,” Machakaire wrote.
“In doing so, respect for her family becomes a true reflection of one’s character, maturity and values.”
The minister also warned against using influence, authority or wealth to intimidate others during disagreements, particularly women and elderly people.
“True leadership is not demonstrated through intimidation, abuse of authority or the misuse of influence against others, especially women and the elderly,” he said.
Machakaire further urged young Zimbabweans to embrace dignity, peace and integrity even during emotionally charged disputes.
The comments come after Sonja and Tabitha Madzikanda were arrested following allegations linked to cybercrime, distribution of digital content and claims involving images allegedly connected to Cyril Ramaphosa.
The controversy erupted after images and alleged videos circulated online appearing to show Chivayo with Ramaphosa before the South African leader’s recent visit to Zimbabwe.
Ramaphosa’s office had previously stated that the South African president had no prior relationship with Chivayo before a meeting hosted by Emmerson Mnangagwa at Pricabe Farm in Kwekwe.
Chivayo later accused Tabitha Madzikanda of circulating manipulated images involving Ramaphosa and defended the arrests, saying his former mother-in-law had “learnt a lesson” after spending several days in custody.
Despite eventually withdrawing charges against both women, Chivayo publicly mocked the ordeal and insisted he had no regrets over the arrests.
The businessman also accused Sonja and Tabitha Madzikanda of attempting to gain access to funds from a trust account reportedly established for his children, allegations they deny.
The dispute has attracted widespread public attention because it combines allegations involving political figures, family conflict, claims of artificial intelligence image manipulation and questions surrounding influence and law enforcement.
Machakaire’s intervention is one of the first public comments by a senior government official that appears to indirectly criticise how the matter was handled.
The minister concluded his message by calling for peace and responsible conduct.
“Our children learn more from our conduct than from our words,” he wrote. “Peace begins with me. Peace begins with you. Peace begins with all of us.”
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