Wicknell Chivayo’s R1 Million Gift to Prophet Edd Branson’s Wife Raises Questions

Recent financial revelations from South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) have brought to light transactions involving businessman Wicknell Chivayo and funds linked to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) tender, with significant attention now focusing on a R1 million transfer to Maxine Branson, wife of prominent prophet Edd Branson.

The transfer, which took place between April 2023 and May 2024, saw approximately R1 million move from Chivayo’s accounts to Maxine Branson’s cosmetics business, Christian by Hadassah.

The timing of the transaction raised suspicions about its connection to funds paid out by Zimbabwe’s national treasury in relation to the ZEC tender.

These payments have been at the center of ongoing investigations into Chivayo’s financial dealings.

The financial disclosures come amidst a broader scandal sparked by the circulation of private messages between Maxine Branson and Wicknell Chivayo.

Hacked screenshots, which were shared widely on social media in July 2024, allegedly showed intimate communications, including romantic exchanges and discussions about vehicle gifts, which were reportedly framed as spiritual donations.

However, both Maxine Branson and Chivayo have denied the authenticity of the leaked messages. Chivayo apologized for the breach of privacy, while Maxine dismissed the screenshots as digitally altered, asserting that their communications were strictly professional.

Prophet Edd Branson, who leads a prominent religious movement, stood by his wife’s defense, citing his spiritual abilities to “see” the truth of their relationship. He pointed to his well-known prophetic talents, asserting that if he could foresee global events, he could certainly discern the nature of his marriage.

The FIC’s investigation into the financial activities surrounding Chivayo’s companies, including Ren-Form CC, continues. These investigations are part of a broader probe into the disbursement of funds linked to the ZEC tender.

The case has sparked widespread debate regarding the intersection of business, politics, and religious affiliations in Zimbabwe.

Despite denials from Chivayo and Maxine Branson, many social media users remain skeptical, with some insisting the leaked chats are genuine.

At the time of publication, neither party had made any official statements regarding the ongoing financial investigations into the ZEC tender or the leaked communications.

The case continues to captivate public attention as authorities press forward with their inquiries into the financial dealings of the individuals involved.

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