Apostle Paul Mwazha Joins Ranks Of Zimbabwe’s National Heroes
In a significant national announcement, the revered leader of the African Apostolic Church, Mutumwa Paul Mwazha, has been declared a national hero. The conferment was made public by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. This prestigious status places the 107-year-old clergyman amongst the most honoured figures in Zimbabwean society, a recognition that continues to evolve under the current administration.
The official declaration was delivered by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Nick Mangwana. Mangwana wrote:
“MUTUMWA APOSTLE MWAZHA, A NATIONAL HERO. His Excellency President E.D. Mnangagwa has conferred National Hero status upon Mutumwa Apostle Paul Mwazha. Burial arrangements will be announced and guided by the family.”
A Continuing Trend Of Inclusive Honours
This decision by President Mnangagwa is seen by political analysts as a reinforcement of his distinct approach to honouring national figures. His administration has consciously broadened the criteria for national hero status, making it more inclusive of influential Zimbabweans from diverse fields.
This marks a notable shift from the precedent set by his predecessor, the late President Robert Gabriel Mugabe. Under Mugabe’s leadership, the honour was largely, though not exclusively, reserved for political stalwarts, particularly those within the ruling party’s inner circle or liberation war veterans.
Mnangagwa’s tenure has seen this honour extended to a wider array of luminaries, including those from the arts and music sectors, acknowledging contributions beyond the political sphere. The recognition of a prominent religious leader like Apostle Mwazha is viewed as part of this broader, more accommodating policy.
A Legacy Of Spiritual Leadership
Mutumwa Paul Mwazha is the founder and leader of the African Apostolic Church, a church with a vast following across Zimbabwe and in neighbouring countries. Known to his followers as “Mutumwa” (Messenger), his teachings and leadership have shaped the spiritual landscape of the nation for decades. His advanced age has done little to diminish the reverence in which he is held, with his church remaining a powerful social and religious institution. The announcement has been met with widespread celebration amongst his congregation, who see this as a fitting recognition of his immense contribution.
The declaration paves the way for Apostle Mwazha to be buried at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, a site reserved for those deemed to have rendered exceptional service to Zimbabwe. The family, in conjunction with the government, is expected to announce the burial details in the coming days.
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The post Mutumwa Paul Mwazha Declared Zimbabwe National Hero appeared first on iHarare News.
