Zimbabwe’s Presidential Envoy and Ambassador-at-Large, Prophet Uebert Angel, has publicly defended Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, condemning what he described as disrespectful attacks against the former army commander. This comes amid growing political tensions within the ruling Zanu PF party.
Delivering a sermon at his Spirit Embassy church, Angel warned against personal attacks on the Vice-President, arguing that political criticism should not become an excuse for contempt towards national leaders. His remarks are set against a backdrop of reported tensions between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Chiwenga over the party’s future leadership succession, with disagreements surfacing at the recent Zanu PF Annual National People’s Conference in Chinhoyi.
Angel’s sermon, broadcast online and widely circulated, sparked debate. He insisted that while Zimbabweans are entitled to criticise political leaders, such criticism must be expressed respectfully, describing “contempt masquerading as criticism” as “diabolic and evil.” He urged citizens to respect Chiwenga’s position, acknowledging President Mnangagwa’s decision to appoint him.
The preacher also appeared to address the ongoing public and legal dispute between Chiwenga and his former wife, Marry Mubaiwa, whose recent interview included significant criticism of the Vice-President. Angel cautioned his followers against aligning with individuals publicly attacking Chiwenga. Mubaiwa has faced allegations, which she denies, of attempting to interfere with Chiwenga’s life-support during his serious illness in 2019.
Key Players Involved
- Prophet Uebert Angel: Zimbabwe’s Presidential Envoy and Ambassador-at-Large, who delivered the sermon defending VP Chiwenga.
- Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga: The Zimbabwean Vice-President, currently embroiled in political tensions within Zanu PF and a public legal dispute with his former wife.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: The President of Zimbabwe, whose relationship with Chiwenga is reportedly experiencing tensions over party leadership.
- Marry Mubaiwa: Chiwenga’s former wife, whose recent interview included criticisms of the Vice-President and who is involved in a prolonged legal dispute with him.
Event Timeline
- Sunday (late Oct/early Nov 2026): Prophet Uebert Angel delivers a sermon at his Spirit Embassy church defending Vice-President Chiwenga.
- November 3, 2026: News reports surface detailing Angel’s sermon and its implications amid Zanu PF political tensions.
