Opposition politician and constitutional lawyer Fadzayi Mahere has publicly mocked Apostle Rodney Chipoyera, founder of Kingdom Prosperity Ministries, after he described criticism of President Emmerson Mnangagwa as "demonic". Chipoyera's remarks have sparked debate around the luxury vehicles and cash given to his family by controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo. Mahere's response suggested that Chipoyera's defence of Mnangagwa demonstrated how Chivayo's lavish gifts could cultivate political loyalty or silence criticism of the President.
Apostle Chipoyera had described President Mnangagwa as the "National Father of Zimbabwe" and suggested that publicly rebuking the President amounted to challenging a divinely recognised authority. His comments have revived scrutiny of the Rolls-Royce, Land Cruiser Prado, and US$50,000 given to his family by Wicknell Chivayo. In June 2026, Chipoyera collected a brand-new Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge Series II reportedly given to him by Chivayo, which the businessman said was intended to thank Chipoyera for providing spiritual guidance to his sister.
Mahere's statement, "Mota dziye dzakushanda manje", which translates to "Those car donations are now working", implied that Chipoyera's defence of Mnangagwa was a result of the luxury gifts. She added that Zimbabwe needs new leaders, suggesting that Chipoyera's loyalty to Mnangagwa was influenced by the gifts. However, Chipoyera's defence of Mnangagwa does not establish that the vehicle was given under an express agreement requiring Chipoyera to support Mnangagwa.
Wicknell Chivayo has given substantial gifts to the Chipoyera family, including a brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and US$50,000 in cash to Apostle Farai Chipoyera in September 2025. Chivayo described Apostle Farai as "a woman of exceptional grace" and "the rock" supporting her husband's ministry. The gifts were publicly reported at the time, sparking controversy and criticism.
Zimbabwean ecumenical theologian, educator, and religious leader Rev Dr Kenneth Mtata criticised the relationship between Chivayo and beneficiaries of his generosity, questioning the influence of such gifts on the recipients. Lawyer Obey Shava also criticised the relationship, stating that the beneficiaries were "firmly in your pocket now".
Chipoyera's description of Mnangagwa as Zimbabwe's "National Father" is likely to provoke debate, as nationalist Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo is historically remembered as "Father Zimbabwe". The Constitution protects freedom of expression and does not place the President beyond public criticism or correction. Chipoyera's remarks will deepen an already contentious national debate about whether religious leaders should hold political authority accountable.
The controversy surrounding Chivayo's expensive gifts to religious leaders, musicians, politicians, and other prominent Zimbabweans has repeatedly generated controversy, with critics alleging that the donations help construct a network of influential voices loyal to Mnangagwa and ZANU-PF. Chivayo maintains that his philanthropy is inspired by his Christian faith, personal relationships, and appreciation of recipients' contributions to society.
Key points
- Fadzayi Mahere has mocked Apostle Rodney Chipoyera for calling criticism of President Emmerson Mnangagwa "demonic".
- Apostle Chipoyera's defence of Mnangagwa has revived scrutiny of luxury gifts from Wicknell Chivayo.
- The controversy has sparked debate about the influence of luxury gifts on recipients and the role of religious leaders in holding political authority accountable.
