A political debate has emerged in Kenya over the close relationship between President William Ruto and Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo.The controversy intensified after Chivayo visited the newly built Wajir State Lodge shortly after the Madaraka Day celebrations and publicly praised Ruto as one of Africa's most visionary leaders.

Chivayo also stated that he was discussing a multimillion-dollar investment project with the Kenyan president, although the Kenyan government has not publicly provided details about such a project or its financing.

The issue has drawn criticism from opposition figures and former Attorney General Justin Muturi, who questioned why Chivayo continues to enjoy access to senior government officials and State House.

Muturi alleged that Chivayo has been linked to electoral controversies in several African countries and argued that Kenyans should scrutinize the nature of his engagements with the presidency, especially as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.Chivayo, a director of Intratrek Zimbabwe, has a controversial history that includes a fraud conviction in Zimbabwe in 2004.He has also faced scrutiny in other African countries.In South Africa, authorities have reportedly frozen some of his assets and investigations into alleged money laundering are ongoing.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's office previously clarified that Ramaphosa was unaware Chivayo would be present during a meeting hosted by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The businessman has also been at the centre of controversy in Tanzania, where discussions about his relationship with President Samia Suluhu Hassan became part of a wider dispute involving media freedom and political reporting.

Overall, the article highlights growing concerns among critics across several African countries regarding Chivayo's political connections and influence.