Court Nullifies Mugodhi Church Bishop's Appointment
Some church members argued that Aaron Munodawafa was too old and frail to hold the office of bishop
Court Nullifies Mugodhi Church Bishop's Appointment
The High Court recently made a significant decision regarding the leadership of the Mugodhi Apostolic Faith Church (MAFC). Washington Mugodhi, who had been appointed as the church's leader, had his appointment declared unconstitutional by Judge Justice Siyabona Musithu.
As a result, all the actions Mugodhi took during his time as bishop were nullified.
In a surprising twist, the court reinstated Aaron Munodawafa as the substantive bishop. The Munodawafa faction had accused Mugodhi of not following the church constitution. According to their rules, when a bishop passes away, their deputy assumes the leadership role.
The church considered Munodawafa's seniority and health status. Although he was the most senior vice bishop during the August 10, 2019 meeting, some church members argued that he was too old and frail to hold the office of bishop.
Court Nullifies Mugodhi Church Bishop's Appointment
“Following the death of Bishop Mugodhi on 14 October 2019, Munodawafa was the first senior vice Bishop who was earmarked to take over the reins of Bishop in terms of the church’s constitution.”
However, the court disagreed, stating that Munodawafa's health did not disqualify him from ascending to the position of bishop according to the church's constitution.
This legal battle has been ongoing, with both parties appearing in court multiple times. The court's ruling clarifies the legitimate leadership structure within the church.
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Aaron Munodawafa is now officially the substantive bishop, while the third defendant holds the position of Vice Bishop, as outlined in the church's constitution.
