Businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei is facing renewed scrutiny over allegations of growing political and economic influence across Zimbabwe’s public institutions, with critics warning of what appears to be a coordinated attempt to capture key state sectors under the guise of philanthropy and investment.
One of the latest controversies surrounds Arundel Hospital, reportedly operated through Tagwirei’s company, Landela Investments. Despite being introduced to the public as a charitable medical institution offering free healthcare, sources claim the hospital is billing the national treasury for consultations and treatments raising serious questions about transparency and public accountability.
In a single week, Arundel reportedly received US$1.3 million from the government for services provided to approximately 15,000 patients. At the same time, it is alleged that the hospital claims tax exemptions from ZIMRA under the pretext of providing free services, prompting accusations of double-dipping and misleading the public.
Religious leaders, particularly from the Seventh-day Adventist Church, are said to have been misled into endorsing the hospital project under the belief it would serve the public free of charge.
Beyond the health sector, Tagwirei has been linked to a series of political and social influence campaigns, including efforts to acquire Dynamos Football Club, either through increasing his initial US$5 million offer or destabilising the club to drive down its value. Insiders allege he is using financial leverage to expand influence in the sporting arena and among popular artists.
Reports further claim that Tagwirei is recruiting musicians and influencers to restore his public image following his political fallout and alleged sidelining from the ruling ZANU-PF elite. This includes direct outreach to high-profile artists such as Enzo Ishall and Holy Ten, as well as financial incentives to bloggers and content creators.
In the political realm, Tagwirei is allegedly engaged in efforts to undermine or control ZANU-PF’s Youth League and Women’s League, reportedly using financial pressure against figures like Tino Machakaire, while offering a monthly retainer of US$35,000 to former Finance Minister Patrick Chinamasa to influence party constitutional matters.
Further claims point to attempts to sway senior officials like Obert Mpofu through his son, Thulani Mpofu, with promises of development funding and even the Vice Presidency a post allegedly being promised simultaneously to General Phillip Valerio Sibanda, whose personal challenges are believed to be exploited as a vulnerability.
