Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe president Amon Madawo publicly declared his allegiance to the ruling ZANU PF party during a church building celebration in Norton, according to NewZimbabwe.com. Madawo praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa for financial support, sparking fresh debate over political neutrality among religious leaders as the country navigates extended presidential term limits.
Amon Madawo Declares ZANU PF Allegiance at Norton Church Event
Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe president Amon Madawo stated his support for the ruling ZANU PF party during celebrations marking the completion of the AFM Vineyard Assembly church building in Norton, as reported by NewZimbabwe.com. Madawo’s remarks included open criticism of those opposed to the ruling party.
“I’m a ZANU PF member. If you’re not a ZANU PF then what are you? Musi uno ndaiparidza kune imwe church ndikati munyika muno kana ukati pasi na ED unenge uchiti pamberi nani?” Madawo said, according to NewZimbabwe.com.
Pro Tip for Readers Tracking Zimbabwean Politics
Financial Support and Institutional Context Within the AFM Factions
The public declaration follows a series of high-profile financial contributions to the church. According to NewZimbabwe.com, Madawo praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa for financial backing toward the Norton building project. This assistance follows a US$1 million donation made in April to the church’s youth department by ZANU PF Central Committee member and businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
Madawo leads one of the two main factions of the AFM in Zimbabwe. The church split following a leadership dispute with Cossam Chiyangwa, who heads the rival faction, as detailed by NewZimbabwe.com reports.
Did You Know?
Amon Madawo leads the AFM faction that emerged after a leadership dispute.
Prayers for Mnangagwa’s Term Extension to 2030
During the event, Madawo offered prayers for President Mnangagwa’s continued tenure in office, as reported by NewZimbabwe.com. “As AFM, we are very grateful to His Excellency for the heart that he has…. We are very grateful for his support of the church. May God keep him in office and fulfil his vision and aspirations,” Madawo stated.
These remarks follow Mnangagwa assenting to the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Act, which extended his term of office from 2028 to 2030. While the constitutional amendment faces criticism from opposition parties, constitutional lawyers, and civil society groups, several ZANU PF officials and supporters continue to push for an extension beyond 2030 despite the existing two-term presidential limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Amon Madawo?
Amon Madawo is the president of one of the two main factions of the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe.
What did Amon Madawo say regarding ZANU PF?
According to NewZimbabwe.com, Madawo publicly declared that he is a ZANU PF member and questioned what political identity critics of the ruling party hold.
What recent donations has the AFM received?
The AFM received financial support for its Norton church building project from President Emmerson Mnangagwa, following a US$1 million donation to the church’s youth department in April from ZANU PF Central Committee member Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
What is the constitutional status of Mnangagwa’s presidential term?
Mnangagwa’s term was extended from 2028 to 2030 following the assent to the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Act, though the change has drawn criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups.
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