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AFM leader backtracks on Zanu-PF support
2 hrs ago |
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Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe leader Amon Madawo has reaffirmed the church's political neutrality following criticism from some members over his recent public show of support for Zanu PF and President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Madawo sparked controversy earlier this month when he publicly praised Mnangagwa and expressed support for the ruling party.
His remarks came after the President reportedly contributed to the construction of the AFM church in Norton, a project that began in 2002 but stalled before Mnangagwa intervened.
Mnangagwa also donated US$304,000 to the church, as well as a bus and a top-of-the-range vehicle.
The President's support, coupled with Madawo's public praise of Zanu PF, prompted concerns among some AFM members over whether the church had abandoned its longstanding position of political neutrality.
However, speaking at a recent conference in Masvingo, Madawo sought to clarify the church's position, saying AFM remained non-partisan.
"AFM is a spiritual non-partisan church composed of people of different cultures from different regions and tribes. Our approach is non-political, very spiritual, evangelical and pentecostal," said Madawo.
He said the church did not align itself with political ambitions despite maintaining a relationship with the Government.
"AFM in Zimbabwe complements the government's efforts. We do not view government as the adversary of the church. We see the government as a partner in improving people's lives," Madawo said.
Madawo's latest comments come amid heightened scrutiny of relations between churches and political leaders in Zimbabwe, particularly where churches receive significant assistance or donations from the Government.
In June, Madawo received a Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series ZX from Mnangagwa, becoming the latest clergyman to receive a high-end vehicle from the President.
Madawo currently leads one faction of the AFM following a long-running leadership dispute that resulted in the emergence of a splinter group led by Cossam Chiyangwa.
The church's latest clarification is likely to be closely watched by members amid continuing debate over the appropriate relationship between religious institutions and political authorities.
Madawo sparked controversy earlier this month when he publicly praised Mnangagwa and expressed support for the ruling party.
His remarks came after the President reportedly contributed to the construction of the AFM church in Norton, a project that began in 2002 but stalled before Mnangagwa intervened.
Mnangagwa also donated US$304,000 to the church, as well as a bus and a top-of-the-range vehicle.
The President's support, coupled with Madawo's public praise of Zanu PF, prompted concerns among some AFM members over whether the church had abandoned its longstanding position of political neutrality.
However, speaking at a recent conference in Masvingo, Madawo sought to clarify the church's position, saying AFM remained non-partisan.
"AFM is a spiritual non-partisan church composed of people of different cultures from different regions and tribes. Our approach is non-political, very spiritual, evangelical and pentecostal," said Madawo.
He said the church did not align itself with political ambitions despite maintaining a relationship with the Government.
"AFM in Zimbabwe complements the government's efforts. We do not view government as the adversary of the church. We see the government as a partner in improving people's lives," Madawo said.
Madawo's latest comments come amid heightened scrutiny of relations between churches and political leaders in Zimbabwe, particularly where churches receive significant assistance or donations from the Government.
In June, Madawo received a Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series ZX from Mnangagwa, becoming the latest clergyman to receive a high-end vehicle from the President.
Madawo currently leads one faction of the AFM following a long-running leadership dispute that resulted in the emergence of a splinter group led by Cossam Chiyangwa.
The church's latest clarification is likely to be closely watched by members amid continuing debate over the appropriate relationship between religious institutions and political authorities.
Source - newzimbabwe
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