Scores of the members of the Johanne Masowe eChishanu in the Africa Unity Square in front of the parliament building to grace the opening of parliament by President Robert Mugabe (Photo: M Chibaya.)

Scores of the members of the Johanne Masowe eChishanu in the Africa Unity Square in front of the parliament building to grace the opening of parliament by President Robert Mugabe (Photo: M Chibaya.)

Scores of the members of the apostolic  of the Johanne Masowe weChishanu today thronged Africa Unity Square at the front of parliament building to grace the opening of the eighth parliament by President Robert Mugabe.

The apostolic group, which has always praised Zanu PF and Mugabe sang a number of songs that praised Mugabe.

Speaking to RelZim a member of the church said her church support president Mugabe arguing that he was sent by the Holy Spirit.

“We have come here to show our support for President Mugabe. He can rule forever because he is the leader that was appointed by God,” said a member of the apostolic church.

This is not the first is not the first time that the members of the apostolic have attended the national event, previously they have attended the burial of national heroes, independence celebrations and the inauguration of President Mugabe.

However, the MDC party led by former Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai boycotted the opening following its defeat on the 31st of July.

Mugabe’s election was not legitimate, said the MDC-T says adding its candidate, Morgan Tsvangirai, was cheated of victory, which the Zanu PF leader Mugabe denies.

The election ended the coalition the two leaders formed after disputed elections in 2008.

The July poll went off peacefully, in contrast to the previous election that was marred by violence and intimidation.

Scores of the members of the Johanne Masowe eChishanu in the Africa Unity Square in front of the parliament building to grace the opening of parliament by President Robert Mugabe (Photo: M Chibaya.)

Scores of the members of the Johanne Masowe eChishanu in the Africa Unity Square in front of the parliament building to grace the opening of parliament by President Robert Mugabe (Photo: M Chibaya.)

Mugabe, 89, won with 61% of the presidential vote against 34% for Tsvangirai on 31 July.

Meanwhile during his speech Mugabe said he was ready to revive relations with Western countries which he has fought since 2000 when he started the chaotic land reform programme which resulted in the displacement of more than 4000 white commercial farmers.

“We stand ready to work with even those who before were at odds with us,” he added.

“On the other hand, we will continue to demand the immediate and unconditional removal of sanctions imposed by some arrogant Western countries.”

In March, the European Union (EU) suspended sanctions against 81 officials and eight firms in Zimbabwe. Sanctions are still in force against 10 people, including President Mugabe.

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