Chivayo to buy Dynamos bus despite derby defeat, hits back at CAPS fans ‘mockery’
HARARE – Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo says he will honour his pledge to buy Dynamos Football Club a brand-new 65-seater bus despite the club’s defeat to CAPS United on Sunday, and has thrown in an additional $50,000 cash gift for players – but not before hitting back at fans who mocked him during the match.
Chivayo made the bus pledge during a Capitalk FM interview last week, promising to buy Dynamos the vehicle if they beat CAPS United. They did not, losing 2-1 in a fixture described by Chivayo as “nothing short of sporting excellence.”
But it was the crowd’s reception of Chivayo himself, rather than the result, that dominated his lengthy post-match statement on Monday.
CAPS United supporters sang “mbavha mbiri chete dzatakavenga – Chivayo naScott.” Translated from Shona, the fans chanted “only two thieves we hate – Chivayo and Scott” in apparent reference to Chivayo and Scottland FC owner Scott Sakupwanya.
“What genuinely surprised me during the match was the level of ridicule and unnecessary mockery directed towards my promise,” Chivayo wrote, insisting he would not “reduce myself into someone who only stands by his word when circumstances are favourable.”
He announced that Dynamos management should “immediately” contact his lawyer, Sikhumbuzo Mpofu, to deliver bus registration details, and clarified the gesture was “not sponsorship of any sort” but appreciation for supporters who filled the stadium.
Chivayo used the statement to take a broader swipe at his critics, invoking the biblical proverb about a prophet without honour in his hometown.
“It is actually surprising how outside Zimbabwe, the ‘big’ name ‘Chivayo’ is received with respect and treated to red carpet receptions,” he wrote.
“Unfortunately, some people struggle to celebrate one of their own simply because he is successful or wealthy.”
He ended with a pointed demand: “Put some respect on my name.”
Chivayo also drew eyebrows with a remark describing Dynamos – founded in 1963 – as “the next best thing” formed that year, after Zanu PF.
Chivayo, who made his fortune from state contracts, sponsors Highlanders and Scottland FC
