The president of the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe, Amon Madawo, has issued a formal statement affirming the church’s non-partisan position. The clarification, released in a pastoral letter to church members, followed reactions to comments Madawo made in early October regarding the ruling ZANU PF party and President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The initial remarks occurred at a National Day of Prayer event organized by a group affiliated with ZANU PF. During the gathering, which President Mnangagwa attended, Madawo’s public comments were interpreted by some observers as an endorsement of the president’s leadership. Zimbabwean media outlets reported that Madawo’s statements included a reference to the president’s position as being ordained by God.
Following the event, discussions arose on social media and among church members concerning the AFM’s traditional stance of political neutrality. Some congregants expressed concern that the public remarks could be perceived as aligning the church with a specific political party.
In response, Madawo circulated a pastoral letter to clarify the AFM’s official position. In the letter, he stated that the AFM in Zimbabwe “remains an apolitical church which does not side with any political party.”
The statement reiterated that the church’s role is to pray for the nation and its leaders, in accordance with religious scripture, rather than to offer political endorsements. Madawo emphasized that the church’s membership is comprised of individuals from various political affiliations and that its primary mission is spiritual.
“Our mandate is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to all people regardless of their political affiliation, race, colour or creed,” the letter stated. “We pray for those in authority as the Bible commands us.”
The events highlight the ongoing dialogue regarding the role of religious institutions in Zimbabwe’s political landscape. Churches command significant social influence in the country, and statements from their leaders are often subject to public scrutiny. The AFM is one of the largest Pentecostal denominations in Zimbabwe.
