A Zimbabwean preacher, Apostle Talent Farai Chiwenga, has sparked controversy with a video message warning people planning to attend Wicknell Chivayo's burial that they may end up dead themselves. Released on October 2, the clip is framed as an urgent prophetic intervention. Chiwenga claims God showed him a disturbing vision of a funeral within a funeral, with bodies of people attending or leaving a burial.
In the video, Chiwenga described his vision, stating, "I see a funeral at a funeral. I see bodies of people who are going to attend a funeral or people coming from a funeral, and they die." He invoked biblical imagery, drawing a parallel between Zimbabwe's situation and the reign of Herod in Judea, claiming God's anger was stirred by the taking of innocent lives.
Chiwenga claimed ordinary Zimbabweans were caught in the crossfire of divine judgment, saying, "This is what happens when God is not happy. Taking the lives of ordinary citizens attracts the fury of God." He stopped short of telling people not to attend, instead framing the video as a formal caution, adding, "Everyone who wants to attend the funeral, please do so — today, October 2 is a warning that we are going to end up with funerals at a funeral."
The warning drew swift and skeptical responses online, with many questioning the credibility and logic of the message. Social media users expressed their doubts, with some pointing out that the preacher's message was unclear or that he was trying to scare people. One user, @PeopleWhoTrade, wrote that Chiwenga "delivers 411 and calls it a prophecy."
Chivayo's family addressed his wishes concerning his estate as mourners gathered at his Harare residence. Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo said the businessman had clearly expressed his intentions regarding his children. He assured mourners that the family would respect those wishes as funeral preparations continued following his death.
The controversy surrounding Chiwenga's warning comes as Zimbabwe and Kenya, among other nations, continue to grapple with issues of faith, spirituality, and the role of prophets in society. While some have criticized Chiwenga's message, others have defended the right to free speech and expression, particularly in matters of faith.
As Wicknell Chivayo's funeral approaches, the nation remains divided on the issue, with some heeding Chiwenga's warning and others dismissing it as unfounded. The event is expected to draw significant attention, with many paying their respects to the late businessman.
Key points
- Apostle Talent Farai Chiwenga issued a warning to attendees of Wicknell Chivayo's burial.
- Chiwenga claimed a vision of a funeral within a funeral.
- The warning drew skeptical responses online.
