His career has been riddled with controversy, particularly surrounding his involvement in a multi-million dollar tender with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC). This article delves into Mpofu's background, his partnerships, and the scandal that has tarnished his reputation.

Shrouded in Secrecy: Mpofu's Early Life and Education

Details about Mpofu's early life and education remain largely unknown to the public. Discreet by nature, Mpofu shields his personal life, leaving the media with limited information about his formative years and academic background. While the exact date of his birth is undisclosed, estimates suggest he is around 49 years old.

A Business Partnership Gone Wrong: The ZEC Tender and Fallout with Wicknell Chivayo

Mpofu's most notable business venture involved a partnership with Wicknell Chivayo, another controversial Zimbabwean businessman. Together, through Better Brands Security (Pvt) Ltd., they pursued a US$40 million tender with the ZEC to supply materials for the 2023 Zimbabwean elections. This partnership, however, would become the catalyst for a bitter public feud.

Leaked Audios Spark Outrage: Accusations of Fraud and Deception

In 2024, a bombshell hit Mpofu's reputation. Leaked audio recordings, allegedly featuring Wicknell Chivayo, sent shockwaves through Zimbabwe. Chivayo, in the recordings, reportedly bragged about his influence over government officials and manipulating the ZEC tender process. He claimed to have sidelined Mpofu and his partner, Mike Chimombe, despite their initial involvement.

Further investigation revealed discrepancies in the contract, with allegations suggesting a 235% inflation of the biometric voter registration kits. The NewsHawks reported that high-ranking government officials, including those within President Mnangagwa's office, may have approved the deal.

Adding fuel to the fire, a scathing letter emerged, written by Mpofu and Chimombe, accusing Chivayo of fraudulent alterations to their agreement with Ren-Form, a South African company. The letter detailed how Chivayo allegedly hijacked the deal, inflated invoices, and left them with minimal profits.

The Story of Moses Mpofu - A Businessman Ensnared in Controversy

The leaked audios painted a picture of Mpofu and Chimombe as aggrieved partners, allegedly excluded from the very deal they helped initiate. Public outcry erupted, demanding accountability for the apparent manipulation of the tender process.

Fallout and Legal Threats: Mpofu Seeks Restitution

The leaked audios triggered a bitter public dispute between Mpofu and Chivayo. Mpofu, along with Chimombe, publicly accused Chivayo of breaching their partnership and manipulating the ZEC tender for personal gain. They alleged Chivayo orchestrated their exclusion and demanded legal recourse. These accusations sparked investigations into the ZEC tender process, raising concerns about potential corruption.

Denials and Counter-Accusations: Chivayo Fights Back

Chivayo vehemently denied the authenticity of the recordings, claiming they were fabricated to extort him. He accused Mpofu and Chimombe of attempting to smear his reputation. While Chivayo maintained his innocence, the controversy further tarnished his image and exposed the questionable nature of their business dealings.

Government Reacts: ZANU PF Distances Itself from Chivayo's Claims

The leaked audios and subsequent investigations sent ripples through the Zimbabwean government and the ruling ZANU PF party. ZANU PF officials distanced themselves from Chivayo's claims of influence, condemning his alleged actions on social media. The party emphasized its commitment to transparency and holding individuals accountable.

A Legacy of Controversy

Moses Mpofu's career trajectory is a cautionary tale. His involvement in the ZEC tender scandal has cast a long shadow over his reputation. 

While the investigations into the matter are ongoing, one thing remains clear: Mpofu's name will be forever linked to allegations of corruption and questionable business practices.