In a significant development, President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa, serving as both the head of the Republic of South Africa and the African National Congress, declared plans for the construction of a village comprising 1000 homes for congregants affiliated with the eBuhleni faction of the Nazareth Baptist Church. This initiative is set to take shape in Inanda, located north of Durban.
President Ramaphosa’s visit to the Shembe church. However, an unexpected turn of events transpired as reports emerged that the church’s leader declined a meeting with the President, citing a busy schedule.
Notably, the President’s last visit to the Shembe church occurred in 2019 when he secured electoral victory. Speculations have arisen, asserting that he never returned to express gratitude for the church’s support.
His revelation has sparked diverse reactions, with one commentator asserting, “Shembe is bigger than Ramaphosa, and he will never fall for these lies. Even if he builds it, Shembe will not play for the devil.”
The proposed housing project signifies a significant endeavor to address the residential needs of the eBuhleni faction, showcasing the intersection of politics and religious dynamics in the region. As this story unfolds, it is anticipated to draw attention and scrutiny from various quarters, given the sensitive nature of the relationship between political figures and religious institutions.