Ramaphosa had ‘no knowledge’ of wanted delegate, presidency says

Ramaphosa visited PresidentEmmerson Mnangagwa at his private farm on Sunday for bilateral talks, but reports later emerged that businessman Wicknell Chivayo — who is under investigation in South Africa — was also present.

According to The Bulrushes, Chivayo is being probed for alleged fraud, money laundering and financial crimes linked to a multimillion-rand Zimbabwe election materials deal, in which funds paid to a South African company were allegedly channelled to entities associated with him.

South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre has flagged the transactions, while the Hawks’ investigation remains ongoing.

Addressing the backlash, Magwenya said the Presidency noted the reports “with concern”, stressing: “As the presidency, we’ve noted with concern the reports that have since surfaced following this visit identifying an individual who is a person of interest to our law enforcement who was also present during the visit. President Ramaphosa had no prior knowledge of who will be present during the visit nor is he familiar with the said individual.” 

Magwenta was briefing the media on Wednesday in Cape Town.