Evangelical Pastor to Contest on an Independent Ticket

By Lawrence Paganga

Marondera – Church leaders in the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ) have endorsed the participation of Pastor Robson Pashapa as an independent candidate in council elections.

In an interview with Votewatch263, Pashapa said the decision by the EFZ to endorse his candidature followed reservations expressed by some church elders over the reluctance by politicians to follow advice proffered by church leaders.

“We (as pastors) felt that we should influence politics.  We have been praying for the country but not participating in the running of the country.  The current politicians were also not heeding the advice that we offered.  Politicians don’t want checks and balances. It was then agreed with other senior church leaders that I contest in the coming elections,” Pashapa said.

The Aspiring councillor for Ward 10 explained that he decided to contest as an independent candidate because members of EFZ were drawn from diverse political backgrounds.

“I decided to respect people’s political diversity.  I felt that if I get into politics as an independent candidate, I would not be viewed as representing just one political party,” he said.

Ward 10 covers most of the affluent suburbs in Marondera town.  These include Winston Park, Lendy Park, Paradise and Lower Paradise. The Ward also has the problem of lack of street lights just like other Wards in Marondera. Roads are also in poor shape.