I’M NOT A PROPHET, I’M NOW A SHEPHERD
. . . Madzibaba Ishmael dismisses cult claims
SELF-STYLED prophet, Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa, has dismissed allegations that he is running a cult and holding a number of families captive at his plot in Nyabira.
In an exclusive interview with H-Metro at his shrine yesterday, Madzibaba Ishmael said the people living there were members of his church who had chosen to relocate to the plot.
He said he doesn’t force anyone to stay at the plot and it was all voluntary.
Madzibaba Ishmael said he was no longer a prophet but a proud shepherd with the ability to feed scores of his followers.
“It is unfortunate that we have people abusing and manipulating the media to settle scores,” said Madzibaba Ishmael.
“Reports accusing me, and my administration, of detaining families are malicious and meant to tarnish our church.
“We are not a threat to our community as alleged. Instead, God has ordained me with the power to feed people. I am no longer a prophet, but a shepherd.”
He said they were also involved in providing food aid to vulnerable families in the community and they were there to help people and not to harm anyone.
“At this plot, we train our members to work in the fields. We are going to have a good maize harvest despite poor rain fall.
“We also train people in bakery, fishery, cattle farming and welding.
“Varume nemadzimai aripano havana nzara uye havafe nenzara nekuti Mwari wangu akandipa mazano ekubudirira.
“Tinoremekedza mitemo, hatiite mhirizhonga asi kana pane atinenge takanganisira ngaaende kunevemitemo kwete kumhanya kuvashamarari venhepfenyuro kana kumapepa nhau.
“We are a law abiding church and encourage our families to live peacefully.”
Madzibaba Ishmael showed the H-Metro crew a maize field that he said was doing well due to the training they had received on farming techniques.