Justin Welby ‘stands in solidarity’ with Christians in Zimbabwe

The 93-year-old president made his first public appearance on Friday since the military put him under house arrest this week, attending a graduation ceremony on the outskirts of Harare.

The appearance came even as the military announced “significant progress” on talks for his departure and arrested some of his allies.

In a Facebook status posted on Thursday, Archbishop Justin said he had been following the events closely and is praying intensely for a peaceful solution.

He said: “I am praying for the whole nation of Zimbabwe – its people, its military, its political leaders – that they may find a path forward that leads to the flourishing of this nation and all its people.”

Praying for the whole nation of #Zimbabwe – its people, its military, its political leaders – that they may find a path forward that leads to the flourishing of this nation and all its people. pic.twitter.com/ShnS37x9FH

— Justin Welby ن (@JustinWelby) November 16, 2017

Archbishop Justin added that he “stands in solidarity” with the Church in Zimbabwe.

He said: “To the Church in Zimbabwe: your brothers and sisters around the Anglican Communion stand with you in prayer, solidarity and hope.

“Your faith, courage and persistence in the face of difficult times has long been an example to the world.

“May God strengthen, protect and guide you as you seek to bear witness to the love of Christ at this deeply challenging time.”