adminNyore Madzianike Senior Reporter
FEUDING factions of the Apostolic Faith Mission Church in Zimbabwe (AFM) will know their fate on June 6, when the Supreme Court is expected to make a ruling on the matter.
The case spilled into the Supreme Court after a group led by Reverend Cossam Chiangwa filed an appeal against a High Court order which gave, Rev Amon Dubie Madawo’s faction blessings to lead the church.
The row over control of the church and its assets was sparked by the church’s council meeting held at Rufaro, Masvingo in 2018.
The meeting, as part of its resolutions, passed a vote of no confidence on the president of the church.
The results of the council meeting saw leaders of both factions taking the matter to court.
Justice David Mangota, in his ruling, barred Rev Chiangwa and his followers from using the name of the church when conducting their activities without authorisation from Rev Madawo’s camp.
In his ruling, justice Mangota said:
“The respondents are hereby barred from accessing or using any assets or property of any kind belonging to the church.
“The respondents and their followers or agents or assignees be and are hereby directed to relinquish to the church all and any property belonging to the church that is in possession or under control of the respondents.
“Failure of the above, the Sheriff of Zimbabwe and his lawful deputy be and is hereby authorised to take all and any property and assets belonging to church from the control and possession of the respondent and hand over the same to the church.”
Rev Chiangwa, Amon Chinyemba, Nathan Nhira, Donald Ndoni, Arthur Nhamburo, one M. Mashumba and one S. Sebata were cited as respondents.
Online Reporter