Hundreds of Pentecostal Bishops have threatened to resist any attempt by the government to regulate religious organizations saying it contravenes the right and freedom of worship.
The Pentecostal bishops representing different churches and umbrella faith-based bodies, said the recommendations by the taskforce that was appointed by President William Ruto to streamline operations of religious groups might spark a religious war that would take years to resolve.
Speaking during a meeting in Ruiru town today, the clergymen under the leadership of Bishop Stephen Ndicho, the former Kiambu Speaker and current chairman of the National Gospel Ministers Alliance (NAGMA) said the proposals are attempts to finish Pentecostal churches and if not reviewed will put the government at crossroads with the Church.
The taskforce recommended the state to come up with a Religious Affairs Commission to oversight religious groups to curtail the spread of cults and financial predatory practices prevalent in some churches in the country.
Ndicho criticized the recommendations terming them unconstitutional, highlighting that no public participation had taken place before drafting of the bill.
He pointed out that the appointment of the Mutava Musyimi taskforce that drafted the legislation was erroneous, as the President had no mandate to establish such a body.
He emphasized that the laws appeared to target Pentecostal churches unfairly, applying strict and punitive regulations.
“This is a clear attempt to finish Pentecostal churches,” said Ndicho, further noting that the legislation could be applied selectively, thus infringing on the rights of certain denominations.
He expressed particular concern about the inclusion of non-Christians in the vetting panels, which he argued was unnecessary and potentially harmful to the sanctity of religious affairs.
Apostles Agnes Ndungu and Esther Kamau echoed these sentiments, questioning the fairness of the proposed regulations.
They raised concerns about who would oversee other beliefs systems, such as magicians and traditionalists, asserting that all should be treated equally.
“We are not against accountability, but this law is selective,” said Apostle Ndungu.
Both apostles also objected to the notion that pastors should be required to hold degrees, arguing that such criteria were not necessary for effective spiritual leadership.
By Muoki Charles
