Sanyatwe Apologizes to SDA Church Over Political Remarks at Pulpit

The Zimbabwe East Union Conference (ZEUC) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church has reaffirmed its apolitical stance following controversial political remarks made during a recent evangelistic campaign in Nyanga, Manicaland. The incident sparked public outrage and raised concerns about the role of religious institutions in political discourse.

On 14 June 2025, during the “Operation Macedonia” outreach campaign, Sports Minister and retired Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe made remarks suggesting that ZANU PF would rule “until donkeys grow horns.” The statement, made in Nyanga North constituency, drew immediate criticism for its inflammatory nature and potential to incite unrest.

In response to the remarks, prominent lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu wrote to the church leadership demanding that Sanyatwe issue a public apology and that the church reaffirm its longstanding apolitical position. The ZEUC, a regional administrative unit under the Southern Africa Indian Ocean Division of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, addressed the concerns raised.

Executive Secretary Zibusiso Trust Ndlovu stated that the church “cannot and should never be used as a platform for political advocacy, endorsements, or commentary.” Ndlovu further revealed that Sanyatwe acknowledged the concerns and extended an apology to the church leadership on the same day the remarks were made.

In a statement, Ndlovu reiterated the Church’s strict commitment to political neutrality, referencing the Church Manual, which states that “the pulpit must be reserved for the preaching of the truths of the Divine Word… not personal views and opinions.” The ZEUC emphasized that while public officials may be invited to attend church events, political advocacy during such gatherings is strictly prohibited.

Said Ndlovu: “We take this opportunity to unequivocally remind all churches, leaders, and guest speakers—whether members or non-members—that the pulpit must never be used as a platform for political advocacy, endorsements, or commentary. This standard is non-negotiable and applies across all church-organised events and activities.” (Proverbs 31:8-9), (Ephesians 5:11)

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