Warring Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe (AFM) factions led by Amon Madawo and Cossam Chiangwa have finally buried the hatchet after the latter received recognition from AFM International.
The two factions have agreed to co-exist but using separate names. The Madawo-led faction retains the name Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe while the Chiangwa-led church adopted the Apostolic Faith Mission of Zimbabwe name.
The battle to control AFM started in 2018, with the courts later ruling in favour of the Madawo-led faction which allowed it to take control of all church properties.
Speaking during an interview with The Sunday Mail on Saturday, Chiangwa said he was happy following his faction’s acceptance by AFM International. He said:
We are happy to say that we have been legitimised by the international body, as it means that we now have firm legal status.
Yes, we lost all properties and we have been worshipping in tents, but we are happy that we still have a large following.
We might not have buildings but we have had Jesus on our side, and it is the same Jesus who has now given us international recognition.
He said international endorsement has proved that his faction was right in resisting changes to the AFM constitution. Said Chiangwa:
Reverend Madawo is not a rival, but we did not agree on the amendment of the church’s constitution.
We felt that their stance did not comply with AFM International’s constitution and we have been vindicated.
Madawo congratulated the Chiangwa-led Apostolic Faith Mission of Zimbabwe for getting international recognition. He said:
AFM in Zimbabwe congratulates the other AFM of Zimbabwe for being accepted to the fellowship of AFM International.
Any decision that enhances and promotes the spread of the gospel of reconciliation and peace is accepted by our congregation.
We do not stand in the way of anyone being endorsed by AFM International.
At the time of the split of the church in 2018, Madawo held the post of general secretary, while Chiangwa was vice president. Aspher Madziyire was the president.