A church prayer event in Epworth has been cancelled following backlash from the community over a controversial flyer bearing the theme “Mamonya Ngaafe,” which many residents found offensive, particularly in light of the recent death of the late Sensei Mugo.
Prophet Michael Williams, who leads The Light of the World Church of All Nations, had planned an all-night prayer session to be held opposite Domboramwari Primary School, near the Muhambi family home. The event was originally scheduled for this weekend.
The flyer’s theme stirred strong emotions both online and offline, coming just days after the passing of two prominent Zimbabwean bodybuilders, including Sensei Mugove Muhambi, a respected karate expert and fitness coach who died in a tragic car accident.
Members of the community, especially those connected to the martial arts and bodybuilding circles, took issue with the flyer’s timing and message. Many felt the wording was disrespectful to Sensei Muhambi’s memory, despite Prophet Williams insisting that the theme had no connection to the late athlete.
“I was devastated by his passing. He was like a brother to me; we are neighbours, after all,” Williams said in a voice message shared on WhatsApp. “The flyer was created weeks before his death and was meant to address spiritual warfare, not target individuals.”
Despite the explanation, criticism poured in from various groups, particularly on social media platforms frequented by Sensei Muhambi’s friends, fans, and fellow fitness enthusiasts. Some even called for disciplinary action to be taken against the church.
In response to the outcry and out of respect for the community, the church chose to cancel the event.
Sensei Muhambi was laid to rest at Epworth Cemetery on Monday in a ceremony attended by thousands, including senior government officials such as Sports Minister Anselem Sanyatwe, who hailed the late trainer as “a disciplined warrior whose legacy reached far beyond the dojo.”
