Controversial Gift: Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart Criticizes Peter Ndlovu’s Acceptance of BMW from Wicknell Chivayo

Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart has expressed his disappointment over Zimbabwean football legend Peter Ndlovu’s decision to accept a luxury car from controversial tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo.

On Monday, Chivayo made headlines once again by gifting Ndlovu a brand-new 2024 BMW X6M Sport, valued at a staggering US$144,000. Ndlovu received the vehicle at a car dealership in Sandton, South Africa, a move that has sparked significant public debate.

Chivayo, known for his flamboyant spending and extravagant lifestyle, stated that the gift was a token of appreciation for Ndlovu’s contributions to Zimbabwean football. However, the gesture has raised questions about the source of the funds used to purchase the vehicle.

In a public statement, Coltart did not hold back his criticism, expressing concern over the potential negative implications of such a gift. He voiced his regret that Ndlovu had tarnished his reputation by accepting the car, urging celebrities like Ndlovu to question the origin of money used for such purchases.

“I am sad that Peter Ndlovu has had to sully his fine name in this way. Celebrities have a duty to ask the question – where did the money come from to buy these vehicles?” Coltart remarked.

This controversy follows a series of similar incidents involving Chivayo, who has been known for gifting expensive cars to other Zimbabwean celebrities. While most have accepted his offerings, there have been exceptions. Notably, Chimurenga music legend Thomas Mapfumo turned down Chivayo’s extravagant offer of a US$200,000 luxury car and a US$300,000 house. Mapfumo criticized the tenderpreneur for spending vast sums of money on luxury items while essential services like hospitals suffer from a lack of basic resources.

Chivayo’s generosity toward celebrities continues to stir debate about the ethics of such lavish gifts, especially in a country where economic challenges are widespread. As the story unfolds, many are left wondering how these actions will affect the public perception of the celebrities involved.