Eunor Guti, widow of the late Archbishop Ezekiel Guti and spiritual matriarch of ZAOGA Forward In Faith Ministries International, has made headlines for declining a luxury vehicle and US$250,000 in cash offered by controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo. Her decision has been widely praised as a powerful stand for righteousness and integrity in a time when many are swayed by material wealth.
Chivayo, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and close ties to Zimbabwe’s political elite, took to social media last week to announce the generous offer. He claimed it was a tribute to Archbishop Ezekiel Guti’s “100 years of unmatched service to the body of Christ” and a token of appreciation for his longstanding loyalty to the Zimbabwean government.
As part of his offer, Chivayo pledged a brand-new 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series VXR and US$250,000 in cash, pending approval from the church’s Governing Board. In his Instagram post, he referred to Dr. Eunor Guti as his “beloved mother,” expressing “profound gratitude” for her leadership.
However, sources close to ZAOGA (Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa) have confirmed that Eunor Guti respectfully rejected the offer, remaining firm in her spiritual convictions and upholding the values that have guided the church since its inception.
“We are an indigenous church founded on the principle of righteousness,” a senior ZAOGA official explained. “Our father, Professor Guti, left us with the Kingdom of God, which is sufficient for us. The word of God has all the treasures we need.”
Eunor Guti’s Decision Resonates with the Church and the Nation
Members of the church had voiced significant discomfort about the offer from Chivayo, whose business dealings and public image have sparked controversy in recent years. Many felt the gift would compromise the church’s reputation and contradict the teachings of Archbishop Guti, who championed modesty, faith, and service.
There was also public speculation about the origins of Chivayo’s wealth, with critics arguing that his “philanthropy” is more about optics than genuine benevolence. Some church members even offered to contribute funds themselves to meet any financial needs the ministry might face.
A member of the Guti family, speaking to NewZimbabwe, clarified that the family had not been formally contacted about the proposed donation.
“As a family, we did not receive any formal communication from Mr. Chivayo. We simply became aware of the offer through social media,” the source said. “Honouring Baba Guti should be done in a manner pleasing to God.”
Eunor Guti’s principled refusal of Chivayo’s gift has sparked national debate about morality, corruption, and the role of religious leaders in setting an example. In contrast to her decision, several public figures—including musicians Alick Macheso and Jah Prayzah, gospel artist Dorcas Moyo, and Prophet Ian Ndlovu—have accepted high-value gifts from Chivayo, ranging from luxury cars to homes. These acceptances have drawn sharp criticism from a public grappling with a declining economy, failing healthcare systems, and widespread unemployment.
Prominent cultural icon Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo is another notable figure who, like Eunor Guti, rejected a luxury car and house from Chivayo earlier this year. His refusal was similarly praised for demonstrating integrity in the face of questionable generosity.
Critics argue that Chivayo’s high-profile gifting campaign is a veiled effort to buy public favor and distract from growing concerns over state corruption and failing public services.
“While hospitals go without medicine and schools lack resources, celebrities and preachers are driving around in million-dollar cars,” one critic posted online. “What message does this send to the youth?”
For many Zimbabweans, Eunor Guti’s stand is a beacon of spiritual strength and continuity. Since the passing of Archbishop Ezekiel Guti in 2023, she has emerged as the steadfast torchbearer of his mission—guiding the church with wisdom, humility, and unwavering faith.
By refusing to associate the church with wealth of uncertain origin, she has reaffirmed ZAOGA’s commitment to biblical values and distanced the institution from the political and economic entanglements that often cloud other public figures.
In the words of a senior pastor from the church: “Dr. Eunor Guti continues to teach us that true wealth is found in faith, not finance. Her leadership reminds us that we must always choose God over gold.”
As the public watches how faith leaders and celebrities navigate the increasingly blurred lines between politics, wealth, and influence, Eunor Guti’s example stands tall—a rare and commendable commitment to integrity in a world too often swayed by materialism.
Source-Bulawayo24