In a significant political development, the President of the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe, Amon Madawo, has publicly declared his allegiance to the ruling ZANU PF party. The declaration, made on Thursday during celebrations for the completion of the AFM Vineyard Assembly church building in Norton, has ignited fresh debate over the political neutrality of church leaders in the country.
Madawo specifically praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his financial support towards the church project, which reportedly stalled since 2009 before Mnangagwa’s intervention. These remarks come just weeks after President Mnangagwa assented to the controversial Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Act, which extends his term of office from 2028 to 2030.
While the constitutional amendment has faced widespread criticism from opposition parties, constitutional lawyers, and civil society groups, Madawo’s public backing adds a new dimension to the ongoing political landscape. Some ZANU PF officials and supporters have already begun advocating for Mnangagwa’s tenure to extend beyond 2030, despite the Constitution’s two-term presidential limit.
Key Players Involved
- Amon Madawo: President of the Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe, who publicly declared allegiance to ZANU PF.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Zimbabwean President whose term was extended by a recent constitutional amendment, and who was praised by Madawo.
- ZANU PF: Zimbabwe’s ruling political party.
Event Timeline
- July 7, 2026: President Mnangagwa assents to the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Act, extending his term.
- August 7, 2026: AFM President Amon Madawo publicly declares allegiance to ZANU PF and praises President Mnangagwa.
