Beatrice Kumbana
Crimes and Courts
BULAWAYO \u2013 Eunor Guti, widow of the late Archbishop Ezekiel Guti, has declined a brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series VXR and a $250,000 cash gift from controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, citing concerns over the source of the funds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The donation, intended to honor the late religious leader, sparked debate within the Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa (ZAOGA) church and on social media, with critics labeling Chivayo\u2019s wealth as \u201cdirty money\u201d linked to corruption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Highly placed church sources confirmed Chivayo\u2019s gesture last week, which he described as a tribute to Archbishop Guti\u2019s unwavering support for the government during \u201ctimes of bother.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a social media post, Chivayo wrote:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cOrdinarily, I would say please go and see Farai, but Farai from Faramatsi Motor Club Chambers Showroom along 4th Street will come to you and deliver your 2025 brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series VXR, fully paid for and ready for delivery, subject to the Church\u2019s Governing Board\u2019s consent. Furthermore, please accept $250,000 in cash for fuel and personal use.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The offer divided public opinion, with some church members vowing to purchase the vehicle themselves to avoid associating with Chivayo\u2019s allegedly tainted wealth. Guti\u2019s rejection follows a similar move by musician Thomas \u201cMukanya\u201d Mapfumo, who previously declined a car and house from the businessman.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Critics have accused Chivayo and public figures who accepted his gifts\u2014including musicians Alick Macheso, Jah Prayzah, and Prophet Ian Ndlovu\u2014of normalizing corruption amid deteriorating public services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A source close to the Guti family stated:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAs a family, we did not receive any formal communication from Mr. Chivayo. We became aware of the offers through social media. Honouring Baba Guti should be done in a manner pleasing to God. The church will respond in due course.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A senior ZAOGA member emphasized adherence to doctrine:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe church encourages giving to God, but it must align with teachings drawn from the Word of God. His Word is sufficient for us\u2014it is the Kingdom of God with all treasures.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guti\u2019s decision has drawn widespread praise, reinforcing her stance against perceived ethical compromises.
https:\/\/chat.whatsapp.com\/DmjL6AQntg6HMO5rj5yucz<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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