Controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has officially withdrawn charges against his ex-wife, Sonja Madzikanda, and her mother, Tabitha Madzikanda, following their recent arrest and detention. The withdrawal comes after several days in custody for his former mother-in-law, who Chivayo publicly stated had ‘learnt a lesson’. The highly publicised domestic dispute, which saw the Madzikandas facing charges, has drawn significant attention across social media and traditional news outlets.
Adding another layer to the unfolding drama, Minister Tino Machakaire has publicly appeared to criticise Chivayo’s actions. The minister urged young Zimbabweans to reject intimidation, abuse of power, and humiliation during personal disputes, a statement widely interpreted as a direct rebuke of Chivayo’s conduct in the matter. This intervention by a public official has further intensified the debate surrounding the incident and the behaviour of public figures.
Key Players Involved
- Wicknell Chivayo: Prominent and controversial Zimbabwean businessman.
- Sonja Madzikanda: Chivayo’s ex-wife.
- Tabitha Madzikanda: Sonja Madzikanda’s mother, who spent several days in custody.
- Minister Tino Machakaire: Zimbabwean Minister who publicly criticised Chivayo’s handling of the dispute.
Event Timeline
- May 21, 2026: Chivayo’s ex-wife and mother-in-law face ongoing legal proceedings, with the mother-in-law spending a fourth night in custody.
- May 22, 2026: Chivayo announces the withdrawal of charges against his ex-wife and mother-in-law, making public remarks about his former mother-in-law ‘learning a lesson’.
- May 22, 2026: Minister Tino Machakaire issues a statement widely seen as a critique of Chivayo’s actions.
