Church leaders have defended nationwide prayer gatherings organised in support of former police minister Senzo Mchunu, saying no one has the right to prevent religious organisations from praying for leaders facing public scrutiny.
Thousands of Christians gathered in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, on Saturday under the theme The Truth Shall Prevail, as part of a growing national campaign of prayer and support for the embattled ANC leader. Mchunu recently appeared before the Madlanga Commission, where he faced allegations of interfering in police work.
The KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council said churches have a moral and spiritual duty to pray for all leaders, especially during times of crisis. Church leaders at the gathering said prayer should never be politicised and that prayer is not a crime nor does it interfere with the law.
Religious leaders urged South Africans not to rush to judgment while the commission continues its work, saying constitutional and legal processes must be respected.
Supporters sang hymns, prayed and waved placards backing Mchunu, describing him as a long serving leader who deserves fairness and dignity while responding to the allegations.
The prayer gathering also highlighted widening divisions over the allegations, with some communities concerned the controversy could further damage public trust in government and law enforcement. Organisers said the prayer campaign will continue travelling to different provinces as churches unite in what they describe as a call for truth, justice and national healing.
