Chivayo’s attempt to donate a brand-new luxury SUV and US$250,000 to Eunor Guti, the widow of the late Archbishop Ezekiel Guti and spiritual matriarch of ZAOGA Forward In Faith Ministries International, has backfired—earning Guti national admiration for her principled rejection of the controversial gift. Her principled decision has been hailed as a bold stand for integrity, spiritual discernment, and unwavering adherence to biblical values.
Wicknell Chivayo, widely known for his flamboyant displays of wealth and his close ties to Zimbabwe’s political elite, publicly announced the intended donation via social media. The proposed gift—a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series VXR and a quarter-million dollars in cash—was, according to Chivayo, a gesture to honour the centenary of Archbishop Guti’s ministry and his “unmatched service to the body of Christ.”
“In honour of 100 years of unmatched service to the body of Christ… I am profoundly humbled to express my deepest gratitude to my beloved mother, Dr. Eunor Guti,” Chivayo posted, noting that the offer was subject to the approval of the church’s Governing Board.
But despite the grand gesture, Guti and the ZAOGA leadership declined the offer, citing the church’s firm commitment to holiness, transparency, and spiritual integrity over worldly recognition or material gain. According to insiders within the ZAOGA Forward In Faith Ministries, Guti made it clear that the church does not align itself with gifts that might compromise its ethical or spiritual position. Leaders emphasized that the church was founded on a commitment to righteousness and independence from material or political entanglements.
“We are an indigenous church founded on the principle of righteousness,” said a senior ZAOGA official. “Our father, Professor Guti, left us the Kingdom of God, which is enough. The word of God holds all the treasures we need.”
Chivayo Lavish Gift Rejected by Eunor Guti, Upholding ZAOGA’s Spiritual Legacy
Many congregants also spoke out, expressing unease with the donation and questioning the moral standing of the donor. Some labelled Chivayo’s wealth as “tainted” and suggested that accepting the offer would have undermined the spiritual foundation laid by the late Archbishop. In a show of unity and faith, several church members pledged to raise funds internally for the ministry if any needs arose, underscoring their dedication to maintaining the purity and independence of the church.
Adding to the controversy, a member of the Guti family disclosed that they were never formally approached regarding the donation. Instead, they discovered it through social media posts. “As a family, we did not receive any formal communication from Chivayo. We only became aware of the offer via social platforms,” the family source told NewZimbabwe. “Honouring Baba Guti should be done in a way that is pleasing to God, not for public attention.”
This lack of direct engagement further fueled speculation that the gesture was more self-serving than sincerely philanthropic, prompting widespread praise for Guti’s decision to distance herself from what many perceived as a publicity stunt.
Eunor Guti joins a small but respected group of Zimbabwean public figures who have refused high-value gifts from Chivayo. Earlier this year, legendary musician Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo made headlines for rejecting a similar offer involving a luxury car and property. In stark contrast, other popular figures—including musicians Alick Macheso, Jah Prayzah, gospel artist Dorcas Moyo, and Prophet Ian Ndlovu—accepted Chivayo’s gifts, drawing criticism for appearing to endorse questionable wealth while the nation’s public infrastructure, particularly its healthcare system, continues to crumble.
Social media reactions have been divided, with some praising recipients for their loyalty or achievements, while others condemned the trend as a distraction from pressing national issues. Many critics have accused Chivayo of using his gifting spree as a smokescreen to clean up his public image and curry favour with influential figures. At a time when Zimbabwe faces deepening economic hardship and growing dissatisfaction with governance, gestures like these are increasingly met with suspicion.
Analysts argue that such publicized donations are a form of soft power meant to win public approval, mask allegations of corruption, and cement political alliances. By firmly declining the lavish offer, Eunor Guti has not only preserved the sanctity of her late husband’s legacy but also sent a powerful reminder of what true spiritual leadership looks like. Her actions demonstrate a rare commitment to integrity, humility, and a deep understanding of her responsibilities as a steward of faith.
In an era where public figures often blur the line between spiritual service and political influence, Guti’s decision stands as a guiding light. Her unwavering stance is being celebrated not just within the ZAOGA community, but by many Zimbabweans who are desperate for ethical leadership grounded in faith and accountability.
Source- Bulawayo24
