Tensions Are Rising in Johane Masowe Following Chivayo’s Death

Story By Staff Reporter

The death of businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy in the Marondera helicopter crash on 30 September 2026 has drawn reactions across Zimbabwe, including from members of the Johane Masowe apostolic community. Chivayo was publicly known for his generosity, including gifts to many groups.

A video discussion now circulating online, hosted by Zigo, says the death has brought arguments among some members and prophets in the church into the open. The guests include Baba Lawrence, who is also referred to as Baba Rorenzi. This article summarises that discussion. The claims are the opinions of the host and guests, and the church has not confirmed them.

The Claim: Disputes Over Access

According to the panel, the main point of contention is what they call “gatekeeping.” They say some people are accused of controlling or restricting access to prophecy, to church patronage and to valuable benefits meant for prophets in general.

The panel did not provide evidence for these accusations in the video, and no church leader has publicly responded to them. This article does not name any individuals accused.

Gifts, Vehicles and Wealth

The discussion also covers luxury gifts and vehicles that were reportedly distributed through church connections and political affiliations. The speakers argue this has caused divisions and debate among members over material focus versus spiritual principles.

These details are the speakers’ claims and have not been independently verified.

Religion, Money and Politics

The panel raises concerns about how wealth and political alignment have affected church leadership and created factions among followers. They call for a return to scriptural standards, personal prayer and true spiritual leadership.

A Call for Ubuntu and Respect

The central message is about conduct after a death. The speakers say Ubuntu and Christian principles mean that people should mourn and unite, and that nobody should celebrate a death, whatever their past controversies or differing views. In their view, infighting and financial squabbling at a time like this go against those values.

A Note on Religious Sensitivity

Johane Masowe is a faith community with many members, and the views in this discussion come from a small group of speakers. They should not be taken to describe every member, prophet or congregation. Many followers are grieving, and they may see the situation very differently.

This article reports on a public discussion about conduct and leadership. It does not criticise the beliefs, worship or practices of the church or its members. Readers are encouraged to treat the community with respect and to avoid generalising about it based on one programme.

What We Don’t Know

• The church has not issued an official statement on the claims.
• No evidence has been presented for the accusations of gatekeeping.
• The discussion reflects the views of a few speakers, and other members may see things differently.

Key Points

• A video discussion hosted by Zigo, with guests including Baba Lawrence (Baba Rorenzi), says tensions have surfaced in the Johane Masowe community after Chivayo’s death.
• The panel alleges gatekeeping and disputes over gifts and patronage, which are unverified.
• The panel calls for mourning, unity and Ubuntu.
• The discussion does not represent the whole community.
• The church has not commented.

This article summarises a video discussion and does not verify or endorse the views expressed. It will be updated if the church or its leaders respond.