Presidential leadership power comes from God, says Andby

Archbishop Andby Makururu, leader of Johanne The Fifth of Africa, has said that God-anointed power does not come easily, often attracting opposition and resistance.

Addressing thousands of congregants at his church's annual gathering in Manica province, Mozambique, over the weekend, Makururu stressed that leadership in politics, religion, and other spheres is always accompanied by challenges. The event was attended by senior figures from Mozambique's ruling Frelimo party as well as top officials from Zimbabwe's Zanu-PF.

"When power is coming, you face challenges, especially when you want to lead a country, church, and many leadership positions, because many people want leadership positions," he told the gathering. "When I started this church, I faced many challenges. Some people wanted me arrested, but I remained steadfast and prayed. Even today, I am still encountering several challenges."

Makururu drew parallels between his own experiences and the political journeys of Mozambican President Daniel Chapo and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He said both leaders endured obstacles and personal risks before assuming office. "President Daniel Chapo did not come to power easily, there was violence against him, and also look at President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Zimbabwe. If he had not run away from the country, he could have been killed or jailed and failed to rule the country," he said.

Mozambique experienced deadly unrest following Chapo's disputed election victory last year, while Mnangagwa fled Zimbabwe in 2017 after being expelled from Zanu-PF by the late President Robert Mugabe, only to return and take power after Mugabe's ouster.

Makururu also extended birthday wishes to President Mnangagwa, whose celebrations were being held at his Zvishavane home today.