“'Operation Monyas Must Die': Church Sparks Outra...

“'Operation Monyas Must Die': Church Sparks Outrage Over Prayer Vigil Poster Days After Local Hero’s Death”

Gilbert Munetsi - Zim Now Writer

A controversy has ignited in Epworth following the sudden death of renowned karateka and fitness trainer Mugove "Monya" Muhambi, after a Pentecostal church’s promotional material for an all-night prayer vigil appeared to reference the late athlete in a manner many deemed disrespectful.

Sensei Muhambi, a respected community figure and former martial arts guru, died in a tragic road traffic accident early Saturday morning. He was laid to rest at Epworth Cemetery on Monday, in a ceremony attended by hundreds.

They included Sports and Recreation Minister Lt-Gen (Rtd) Anselem Sanyatwe, who hailed him as “a true warrior whose discipline, dedication, and service to the community transcended sport.”

Hours upon learning of Muhambi’s death, his close friend and another bouncer, Naison Masaka, suffered a stroke and died, a development that further emotionally affected the entire body building and fitness training fraternity.

However, just as the community was coming to terms with the double loss, posters from the Light of the World Church of All Nations began circulating, promoting a prayer event under the theme “Operation Mamonya Ngaafe.” Loosely translated, it means “Operation Let the Bouncers Die.”

The event, scheduled for May 23 opposite Domboramwari Primary School, immediately sparked outrage across social media platforms.

Many interpreted the wording as a thinly veiled reference to Muhambi, popularly known as "Monya," accusing the church of insensitivity and mockery in the wake of his passing.

The reaction was swift and furious, particularly in WhatsApp groups frequented by friends and admirers of the late martial artist. Some users even suggested that the church leaders be confronted and punished.

The church’s founder and event organiser, Prophet Michael Williams—who is also a neighbour of the Muhambi family—has since issued a public defence, claiming the message was grossly misinterpreted.

In an audio recording obtained by Zim Now, Williams stated:

“Yes, I am a neighbour to the Muhambis and I looked at the late Mugove as my brother. The poster was created and shared on May 3, weeks before his untimely passing. Out of respect, we have since cancelled the event. The theme referred to spiritual warfare—not to “Monya Mugo” personally. It was never intended to cause harm or offense.”

Despite the cancellation, the incident has left a bitter aftertaste for many in Epworth, who feel the timing and wording were deeply inappropriate. The clash highlights ongoing tensions between modern religious messaging and community sensitivities, particularly in close-knit, high-density suburbs.

Adding to the debate, some members of the public have questioned why a figure of Muhambi’s stature was not buried at what they perceive as more “prestigious” cemeteries such as Zororo or Glen Forest.

However, sources close to the family confirmed that Muhambi’s burial in Epworth was both a sentimental and practical decision. Born and raised in the area before later relocating to St. Martins, he maintained deep family roots in Epworth.

His older brother Elson—also a former professional boxer, fitness trainer, and councillor—was buried there, further solidifying the cemetery’s significance to the family.

As the dust settles, community leaders have called for mutual respect and understanding in both grief and faith, warning against sensationalism that risks deepening wounds.