HARARE – Outspoken preacher Apostle Talent Chiwenga has publicly criticised Prophet Ian Ndlovu, alleging that the prophet’s acceptance of gifts from controversial tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo has compromised his spiritual integrity.
Chiwenga referred to Ndlovu as “Wicknell Chivayo’s sidechick,” suggesting a compromising level of dependence.
Chiwenga, in his critique, directly challenged Ndlovu’s scriptural interpretations, specifically referencing John Chapter 3, which speaks to receiving from God.
Chiwenga implied that the gifts, particularly the vehicles, were not divinely sourced but rather politically motivated, citing Chivayo’s own statements that the gifts were connected to Zanu-PF.
“Ian Ndlovu is now Wicknell Chivayo’s sidechick,” Apostle Chiwenga stated.
“Ian Ndlovu inzenza ya Wicknell Chivayo. You can’t quote John Chapter 3 and say ‘a man cannot receive anything except from God’. We know the scriptures that say they are prophesying for a bribe.
“What you received is not from above. That car is not from above. It came from Zanu-PF. Wicknell Chivayo was very clear, ‘everyone receiving cars from me, they must know it’s coming from Zanu-PF.”
The criticism stems from Chivayo’s recent donations to Prophet Ndlovu, which included two brand-new vehicles, a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series VXR and a 2025 Toyota Fortuner 2.8D GD6, as well as substantial cash donations totaling US$150,000.
Chivayo stated the vehicles, worth US$280,000, were gifts to recognise Ndlovu’s spiritual leadership and his work through Divine Kingdom Baptist Ministries.
He also pledged US$100,000 towards the completion of Ndlovu’s church building and US$50,000 to support Ndlovu’s wife’s charitable initiatives.
Chivayo had publicly praised Prophet Ndlovu for his unifying role in Zimbabwe’s spiritual landscape, highlighting his calls for national prayer and his avoidance of divisive rhetoric.
“Through the Divine Kingdom Baptist Ministries, you have stood as a beacon of truth, unity and peace in the body of Christ.
“Your consistent calls for national prayer for our country’s leadership, regardless of political affiliation, is a mark of political maturity and spiritual integrity,” Chivayo stated.
“What I admire most is that you never use the pulpit to sow division, but rather you have used it to foster dialogue and reconciliation.”
Ndlovu, known for his prophecies and spiritual counsel, has gained international recognition, particularly in Kenya, for his accurate predictions.
Chivayo is an ex-convict who allegedly benefitted millions through corruption. His sources of funds have long been unknown.
But recent revelations from South African financial intelligence authorities showed that he benefitted close to R1 billion through controversial Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) contracts. He is being probed for potential money laundering and fraud.
