Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe leader Amon Madawo has reaffirmed the church’s political neutrality during a conference in Masvingo, backtracking on his recent public show of support for ZANU PF and President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Madawo’s earlier remarks praising the ruling party sparked member backlash over the spiritual body’s non-partisan standing.
Amon Madawo Reverses Stance After Member Backlash
Amon Madawo faced sharp criticism from congregants earlier this month after he publicly praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa and expressed support for ZANU PF. Madawo stopped short of declaring a lifetime presidency for Mnangagwa, but his high-profile endorsement alarmed members who questioned whether the church had abandoned its historical independence.
Addressing the controversy at a recent conference in Masvingo, Madawo clarified that the institution maintains a strictly non-partisan identity. “AFM is a spiritual non-partisan church composed of people of different cultures from different regions and tribes,” Madawo stated. “Our approach is non-political, very spiritual, evangelical and pentecostal.”
Government Donations and Norton Church Construction
The controversy surrounding the church’s political stance follows significant material support from the ruling administration. President Mnangagwa intervened to rescue the construction of the AFM church in Norton. Building on the project originally began in the year 2002 before stalling due to a lack of funds.
Did you know? President Mnangagwa personally donated US$304,000 toward the Norton church project, alongside a bus and a top-of-the-range vehicle, according to reports.
In addition to the Norton church contributions, Madawo personally received a Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series ZX from Mnangagwa in June of this year. This made the AFM leader the latest clergyman to receive a high-end vehicle from the head of state, heightening public scrutiny over church-state relations in Zimbabwe.
Viewing Government as a Development Partner
Despite walking back his direct political endorsement, Madawo maintained that the religious organization views the state as a collaborator rather than an adversary. Madawo emphasized that accepting state assistance does not equate to political alignment.
“AFM in Zimbabwe complements the government’s efforts,” Madawo said. “We do not view government as the adversary of the church. We see the government as a partner in improving people’s lives.”
This dynamic unfolds against the backdrop of an ongoing internal leadership struggle within the denomination. Madawo leads one faction of the AFM following a power split that pitted his camp against a splinter group led by Cossam Chiyangwa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the leader of the Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe?
Amon Madawo leads one faction of the AFM following a leadership split with cleric Cossam Chiyangwa.
Why did AFM leader Amon Madawo face criticism from members?
Madawo drew backlash for publicly praising President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF after receiving substantial state donations, including US$304,000 for a Norton church project and a luxury vehicle, which members feared compromised the church’s political neutrality.
Has the AFM church officially aligned with ZANU PF?
No. Madawo has since backtracked, affirming at a Masvingo conference that the AFM remains a non-partisan, spiritual organization composed of diverse members.
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