By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
A sermon by Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa has sparked widespread speculation after comments he made about “crooked men of God” surfaced online, coinciding with Prophet Walter Magaya’s ongoing court case.
The United Family International Church (UFIC) leader made the remarks during a recent Sunday service, criticising preachers who, he said, create their own problems and later claim persecution.
“Especially us as men of God, we can mess around with your brain. We come to the church and act like we are being persecuted, yet these will be issues of our own making,” Makandiwa told congregants.
“I go and provoke my own issues away and when they are about to explode, I come to the pulpit and say, ‘Please pray for me, my enemies are rising against me.’ There is no man of God being persecuted just a crook,” he said
Although Makandiwa did not name anyone, the timing of his remarks has led to online debate, with many users linking the message to Prophet Walter Magaya, who was arrested earlier this month.
Prophet Walter Magaya, leader of PHD Ministries, was arrested on 1 November 2025 at his prayer mountain in Harare.
He faces five counts of rape and 13 counts of fraud. His wife, Tendai Magaya, was released on US$500 bail on 3 November 2025.
In an audio message shared with his followers, Magaya described his arrest as a test of faith and encouraged his congregation to remain steadfast.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has expanded its investigation into Magaya’s case beyond the country’s borders.
ZRP confirmed that new reporting channels have been set up for potential victims, including those based outside Zimbabwe.
The Police has availed cellphone number 0776 830 226, National Complaints number (0242) 703631, and WhatsApp number 0712 800 197 for anyone to freely report and allow the Zimbabwe Republic Police to conduct investigations.