By Staff Reporter
Harare – A security firm reportedly linked to exiled former G40 political figures, Real Star Security, has secured contracts to provide security services at Zimbabwe’s key ports of entry, including Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, raising concerns within the security industry over the transparency and procedural integrity of the tendering process.
Real Star Security, whose operations in Zimbabwe are fronted by Cashington Mavhunduke, was recently awarded the contract by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA).
However, several stakeholders in the security sector have expressed unease, alleging the company was not subjected to thorough vetting before being awarded the sensitive assignment.
Mavhunduke is a well-known figure from the 2016 political landscape, having been identified as a major financier of the now-defunct G40 faction within the ruling party. At the time, he allegedly channelled resources from his now-discredited debt collection firm, Wellcash Debt Collectors, to support the faction’s political activities.
In 2017, Parliament raised concerns over the awarding of public contracts to Wellcash Debt Collectors, questioning how the company was selected ahead of other established debt collection firms.
Due to its alleged political ties to influential G40 politicians, Wellcash was contracted by a number of local authorities and public hospitals, reportedly collecting over US$20 million from debtors during that period.
Industry insiders are now questioning the criteria used to award Real Star Security the current contracts, considering the company’s controversial associations.
“We seem to have a serious problem on our hands. Just how did Real Star Security pass the integrity test given its background?
“It seems the G40 is re-emerging under a different name,” said one concerned industry player who spoke on condition of anonymity.
When contacted for comment, Cashington Mavhunduke declined to comment and said he was in a meeting.
