Saturday, September 12

Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) pastor in an ongoing dispute over the use of church premises, r

HARARE - High Court judge Justice Maxwell Takuva has dismissed a preliminary objection raised by a former Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) pastor in an ongoing dispute over the use of church premises, ruling that the application before the court was properly authorised.

 

 

 

 

 

The matter involved the Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe (AFMZ) as the applicant, and the Apostolic Faith Mission of Zimbabwe together with former pastor Willard Kurida as respondents.

 

 

 

 

AFMZ, represented by Zvimba Law Chambers, had approached the court seeking a permanent interdict to bar the respondents and their followers from accessing, using, or conducting services and gatherings at its premises.

 

The church argued that the respondents were unlawfully occupying its property and conducting religious activities without authority.Who is supposed to be the president after Madzivire? I think Chiyangwa was supposed to be president since he was madzivire's deputy, then madawo was supposed to be Chiyangwas deputy for the next 15years or so Chiyangwa achibuda Pau president osiirawo madawo zvichienda zvakaderowas among the pastors who joined the breakaway group.

 

 

 

 

AFMZ alleged that Kurida continued to conduct church services on AFMZ premises on behalf of the rival institution, despite having no lawful right to do so.

Before the merits of the interdict application could be heard, Kurida’s legal practitioner raised a point in limine, arguing that the application was invalid because the founding affidavit was deposed to by a person who allegedly lacked proper authority.

The respondent, represented by Moyo, Chikono and Gomero, argued that the resolution authorising the litigation was too general, failed to identify the respondents, and did not specify the cause of action.

 

 

 

 

 

The applicant opposed the objection, maintaining that the resolution was valid, emanated from the institution, and properly authorised its representative to institute proceedings. AFMZ relied on Supreme Court authority to support its position.

In his analysis, Justice Takuva held that the resolution clearly identified the cause of action as unlawful occupation of the church’s property and that it was not necessary to name the respondents individually.

He found that the cases relied upon by the second respondent were distinguishable from the facts before the court.

“The resolution in casu shows the cause of action… as the unlawful occupation by identified personnel,” Justice Takuva ruled.

“The resolution is not general in that it speaks to illegal occupants of Applicant ’s property. One need not identify by name the parties involved. As regards the cases cited by the second Respondent, I take the view that they are distinguishable from the facts of this matter.”

The court dismissed the point in limine with costs, ordering the second respondent to pay the costs of suit.

The ruling clears the way for the High Court to proceed to hear the substantive application for an interdict against the respondents.as a pastor until his dismissal in 2018.

The dispute arises from a leadership wrangle that rocked the church between 2017 and 2019, which was eventually resolved by the Supreme Court. In judgment SC 67/21, the Supreme Court ruled that Amon Dubie Madawo was the legitimately elected leader of AFMZ.

Following that ruling, a faction led by Cossam Chiangwa broke away from AFMZ and formed a separate church using a similar nameCossam Chiangwa who leads the breakaway faction of the AFM church seen here in Liverpool during a church service (Picture via Facebook - AFMIM Vessels of Honour Liverpool page)

Cossam Chiangwa who leads the breakaway faction of the AFM church seen here in Liverpool during a church service (Picture via Facebook – AFMIM Vessels of Honour Liverpool page)

AFMZ told the court that it is a long-established Pentecostal church, founded in Zimbabwe around 1916, and operates as a legal entity with the capacity to own property and litigate in its own name.

  • Share:

Info News

Green Card Lawyer: When You Need Legal Help With Permanent Residency

Green Card Lawyer: When You Need Legal Help With Permanent Residency

rnrn

Getting a green card is one of the most important steps in the U.S. immigration process. A green card can allow a person to live and work permanently in the United States.

rnrn

But the process is not always simple.

rnrn

Some people apply through family. Others apply through employment, asylum, refugee status, special immigrant categories, or other immigration pathways. Each route has its own forms, rules, evidence requirements, and risks.

rnrn

That is where a green card lawyer can help.

rnrn

What Is a Green Card Lawyer?

rnrn

A green card lawyer is an immigration attorney who helps people apply for lawful permanent residency.

rnrn

They may help with:

rnrn

Marriage green cards
rnParent petitions
rnChild petitions
rnSibling petitions
rnEmployment-based green cards
rnAdjustment of status
rnConsular processing
rnGreen card interviews
rnRequests for Evidence
rnWaivers
rnGreen card denials
rnConditional green cards
rnRemoval of conditions

rnrn

USCIS handles many immigration benefit applications, including green card-related filings.

rnrn

Do You Need a Lawyer to Apply for a Green Card?

rnrn

Not every person is legally required to hire a lawyer. Some simple cases may be handled without an attorney.

rnrn

However, immigration law can be unforgiving. A mistake may cause delays, denials, or future immigration problems.

rnrn

A lawyer may be especially important if:

rnrn

You overstayed a visa
rnYou entered without inspection
rnYou have criminal history
rnYou were previously denied
rnYou were removed or deported before
rnYou need a waiver
rnYou have past immigration fraud or misrepresentation issues
rnYou are unsure if you qualify
rnYou received a USCIS notice
rnYou are applying through marriage and need strong evidence
rnYou have complicated travel history

rnrn

Family-Based Green Card Cases

rnrn

Family-based green cards are common, but they still require careful preparation.

rnrn

A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident may be able to petition for certain family members. The process may involve proving the qualifying relationship, financial sponsorship, identity, lawful entry, admissibility, and eligibility.

rnrn

A green card lawyer can help prepare:

rnrn

Family petition
rnAdjustment of status application
rnAffidavit of support
rnMedical exam guidance
rnRelationship evidence
rnFinancial documents
rnInterview preparation
rnResponses to USCIS notices

rnrn

Marriage Green Card Lawyer

rnrn

Marriage green card cases receive close review because USCIS wants to confirm that the marriage is real.

rnrn

A marriage green card lawyer can help organize evidence such as:

rnrn

Joint lease or mortgage
rnJoint bank accounts
rnInsurance records
rnPhotos together
rnTravel records
rnMessages and communication history
rnBirth certificates of children
rnAffidavits from family or friends
rnShared bills
rnTax records

rnrn

The goal is not just to file forms. The goal is to clearly prove a real marriage.

rnrn

Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing

rnrn

There are two common green card paths.

rnrn

Adjustment of Status

rnrn

Adjustment of status is usually for eligible applicants already inside the United States.

rnrn

Consular Processing

rnrn

Consular processing is usually for applicants applying through a U.S. embassy or consulate outside the United States.

rnrn

Choosing the wrong path can create problems. A green card lawyer can help determine which option fits your situation.

rnrn

Green Card Filing Fees

rnrn

Government filing fees can change. USCIS provides the official fee schedule and fee calculator to help applicants verify current filing costs before submitting forms.

rnrn

Before filing, make sure you know:

rnrn

Which forms are required
rnWhether online filing is available
rnWhether separate fees apply
rnWhether biometrics fees apply
rnWhether fee waivers are available
rnWhere to send the application

rnrn

A wrong fee can cause rejection or delay.

rnrn

What If USCIS Sends a Request for Evidence?

rnrn

A Request for Evidence, also called an RFE, means USCIS needs more information before deciding the case.

rnrn

An RFE may ask for:

rnrn

More relationship evidence
rnProof of lawful entry
rnFinancial sponsorship documents
rnBirth certificates
rnDivorce records
rnTax documents
rnMedical exam documents
rnTranslation corrections
rnImmigration history explanation

rnrn

Do not ignore an RFE. Missing the deadline may lead to denial.

rnrn

Green Card Interview Preparation

rnrn

Many green card cases require an interview.

rnrn

A lawyer can help you prepare by reviewing:

rnrn

Your application
rnRelationship history
rnImmigration timeline
rnPrior filings
rnPotential red flags
rnDocuments to bring
rnQuestions you may be asked

rnrn

For marriage cases, both spouses should understand the facts of their relationship and be ready to answer honestly.

rnrn

Common Green Card Mistakes

rnrn

Avoid these mistakes:

rnrn

Filing the wrong form
rnUsing outdated forms
rnSubmitting wrong fees
rnLeaving blanks without explanation
rnNot translating documents
rnFailing to disclose past arrests
rnFailing to disclose prior immigration problems
rnSubmitting weak relationship evidence
rnMissing interview notices
rnIgnoring USCIS letters
rnMoving without updating your address

rnrn

Immigration applications should be complete, accurate, and honest.

rnrn

Final Thoughts

rnrn

A green card lawyer can help protect one of the most important immigration applications you may ever file.

rnrn

Whether your case involves marriage, family, work, waivers, interviews, or prior immigration problems, legal guidance can make the process clearer and safer.

rnrn

A green card is too important to guess your way through.

rn

Best Business Credit Cards for Small Business Owners

The best business credit cards can help small business owners manage expenses, earn rewards, and separate business spending from personal spending. If you use your card carefully, it can also improve cash flow and make bookkeeping easier.
rnBusiness credit cards are especially useful for owners who travel, buy inventory, pay for ads, or make regular operating purchases. Instead of using a personal card, a business card keeps transactions organized and may come with better tools for tracking spending. That can save time at tax season and make financial reporting easier.
rnWhen choosing a card, look at rewards structure, annual fees, interest rates, and extra perks. Some cards offer cashback, while others reward travel, office spending, or advertising purchases. The best option depends on where your business spends the most.
rnYou should also review the card’s credit requirements. Some cards are easier to qualify for than others, and newer businesses may need to start with simpler options before moving up to premium cards. A business card should support your operations without creating unnecessary debt.
rnIf you plan to carry a balance, pay close attention to the APR. A rewards card is only valuable if the interest does not outweigh the benefits. For many owners, the smartest strategy is to pay the balance in full whenever possible and use the rewards as a bonus.
rnSome business cards also include tools for employee cards, expense tracking, purchase protection, and travel insurance. These extras may be useful if your team makes frequent purchases or if your business requires travel.
rnThe best business credit card is the one that matches your spending habits, keeps your finances organized, and gives you useful rewards without hidden costs.

rn