Zimbabwe is under fire for sending a large official delegation to the Paris Olympics, despite its dire economic situation. The country is grappling with food shortages and a declared state of disaster due to a severe drought.
Reports of over 60 people, including high-ranking officials like Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry, accompanying a mere seven athletes to the games sparked outrage on social media. Critics accused the government of mismanaging public funds and prioritizing unnecessary expenses.
The Zimbabwe Olympic Committee (ZOC) defended the delegation size, claiming that most individuals were not official members but rather invited guests or technical officials. However, the explanation failed to quell public anger, with many questioning the necessity of such a large entourage amidst the country’s economic crisis.
Government officials justified the delegation’s presence, stating that Vice President Chiwenga was in Paris for both the Olympics opening and investment opportunities, while Sports Minister Coventry attended as an International Olympic Committee member.
