An Independence Day Like No Other ❗️
It’s Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Day but instead of unity and pride, social media is boiling over a viral video of Sir Wicknell Chivayo casually gifting some young man £7000 at a London airport. The jaw dropping moment, caught on camera, has triggered anger and disbelief, especially as back home, hospitals are operating without even Pain-Eeze the most basic painkiller.
A Haunting Reminder: No Painkillers for the Poor
Another video resurfaced of late Sungura star Tatenda Pinjisi, painfully requesting Pain-Eeze before his death a haunting reminder of just how dire the situation has become for ordinary citizens. While people are dying due to lack of basic meds, Wicknell is seen splashing cash abroad like it’s nothing.
Shopping Sprees and a Struggling Nation
As Zimbabweans battle fuel hikes, blackouts, and empty pharmacies, Wicknell’s shopping spree through London’s elite designer stores : Dior, Goyard, Burberry, and LV , feels like a mockery of the nation’s suffering. He’s filmed with bags stacked high, moving through boutiques like royalty, while millions back home can’t afford bread or blood pressure pills.
What Are We Celebrating?
Many citizens feel betrayed. Today’s national holiday feels more like a slap in the face. One Facebook user summed it up best, asking: “What are we celebrating? The only person celebrating independence today is Wicknell Chivayo the rest of us are just trying to survive.”
This sentiment has spread fast, making Independence Day feel more like an insult than an honour.
Pain-Eeze, Nurses & Foreign Currency
The outrage grows sharper when you see the symbolism: Wicknell handing out thousands in foreign currency while nurses beg for salary increases and hospitals have zero Panado in stock. With Independence Day meant to honor the sacrifices made for freedom and equality, many feel insulted watching elites enjoy unchecked luxury while ordinary citizens suffer in silence. Zimbabweans are asking how is this acceptable in a nation where people are crowdfunding to buy medicine?
Freedom or Flexing?
Some defend Wicknell’s right to spend his money how he pleases, but critics say the timing and attitude are tone deaf and reckless. Independence Day has now become a trending topic for all the wrong reasons. Instead of reflecting on progress, Zimbabweans are once again reminded of the growing gap between the rich and the rest.
