Prophet Magaya speaks out on Zanu-PF fights

Popular preacher and founder of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries (PHD), Walter Magaya, says the on-going internal friction between bigwigs in Zanu-PF is normal, but should not be allowed to degenerate into violence.

Speaking to journalists on the eve  of his mega all night prayer at his church yesterday, Magaya said the power contestation currently unfolding in the ruling party and the country at large, which in some cases is exhibited in demonstrations, is healthy for the nation to "see the best leader," but must never turn bloody.

"We are seeing people (in Zanu-PF) who are divided in their opinions and there is nothing wrong in that as long as they have a common purpose and I can assure you the best minds will prevail," Magaya said. "But may I also add that there is no need to engage in violent activities."

The preacher, who today is expected to lead his church and ‘other international  visitors"  in an all  night prayer service dubbed ‘A night of turnaround', said the country was at peace although experiencing minor incidences of clashes compared to other nations where fighting was the order of the day.

"People from other countries have been misled that Zimbabwe is an unsafe country, but they are surprised when they come here to bear witness, they testify that our country is the most peaceful in the world… Let's maintain a peaceful environment," he added.

Zanu-PF is currently embroiled in factional politics with two camps battling to position themselves to succeed President Robert Mugabe.

Vice-President Joice Mujuru and Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs minister Emmerson Mnangagwa reportedly lead the factions although the two have profusely denied the claims.

The ruling party is set to hold a crucial elective congress next month, where new leaders would be chosen and that has created anxiety among party members, with some leading demonstrations against others and in some cases fomenting violence.

Magaya said the country's economic prospects were bright, but "certain things need to change" with more focus being directed to value addition,

Turning to his all night prayer, Magaya said he was expecting no less than 200 000 people in attendance.

He said over 200 police officers would be out to monitor the safety of worshipers and the event will be broadcast live on the national broadcaster, ZTV, and on his Yadah TV.

On foreign dignitaries, he said government had instituted mechanisms to ensure that the country would be safe from the deadly Ebola virus which has ravaged some countries in West Africa.

"Safety measures have been put in place to ensure that people coming (here) will be safe from Ebola which I regard as demonic and evil. I will pray for the disease not to come to our country," said Magaya.

"Last year, over 5 000 people, with some coming from various countries across the world, came to our event. This year we are expecting over 200 000 congregants…this shows the hand of God at work."

Magaya announced that he is currently building a mega church that would be able to accommodate over 200 000 people.

He added: "We are calling upon all people to witness the blind being restored of their sight, the disabled being healed and those with different kinds of afflictions delivered."