By A Correspondent| The Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church’s highly anticipated crossover party, held at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) on December 31, 2024, was marked by a heavy presence of army and police personnel.

This unusual security deployment raised eyebrows, with speculation rife that authorities sought to preempt potential disruptions from fans of popular musician Winky D, whose own crossover show at the same venue had been controversially canceled.

The event, sponsored by businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei’s Bridging Gaps Foundation, attracted widespread attention following revelations that a substantial sum of US$245,000 was paid to secure the venue, effectively blocking Winky D’s planned performance.

The decision led to public outcry, with the musician’s fans accusing authorities and Tagwirei of collusion to suppress artistic freedom and dissent.

Uniformed and plainclothes police, supported by military personnel, were stationed at strategic points around the HICC, creating a tense atmosphere.

While official reasons for the heightened security presence were not provided, sources within the security establishment suggested that authorities feared protests or attempts by Winky D fans to disrupt the event.

One attendee described the scene as “unprecedented for a church event,” adding, “It felt like we were attending a political rally rather than a spiritual gathering.”

Despite the controversy and heavy security, the SDA crossover party reportedly proceeded without incident. Thousands of congregants gathered to usher in the New Year with sermons, prayers, and musical performances.