Kisumu clergy propose regulation of religious sector

Kisumu, Wednesday, June 21 2023,

KNA, By Edwin Odhiambo and Levina Odongo

Clergy drawn from across the religious divide in Kisumu County have called on the national Government to establish a regulatory framework that will ensure religious groups self-regulate to prevent a repeat of the Shakahola massacre which has so far claimed hundreds of lives. 

The Kisumu County Clergy Fellowship, in its submissions to the Presidential Taskforce on Review of Legal and Regulatory Framework Governing Religious Organisations, called on the state to identify evil sects that might have allowed for the cropping up of religious cults and other outfits which continue to commit actions incongruous to national values.

They have also distanced the church from being associated with radical groups and religious fanatics, terming such as criminals who must be dealt with separately without involving the entire religious fraternity.

"People should take care so that we are not swayed and do whatever is done by those who do not recognize true doctrinal positions of the church," Bishop Charles Okombo, the Assistant Chair of the Clergy reiterated. “Regulating the church cannot be done by any other outside body. It can only be done within the church," the man of cloth added.

According to Sheikh Said Juma, registration of churches and mosques should be prioritized and the relevant Committee constituted by someone who clearly understands religion. He also condemned the mushrooming of religious centres and encouraged a follow-up of all centres registered from the grassroots level. 

The leaders have also dismissed claims that there was laxity on the part of the government when it came to dealing with Malindi-based controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie who has been linked with the massacres at Shakahola.

"The government took action immediately reports of Mackenzie's teachings were reported and his church in Malindi was closed," Bishop Elly Rop said. "Let us not blame the government, but point the fingers to us, churches and mosques, and find out where the problem lies," he concluded. 

The public participation forums are ongoing across the country, with three national sub-committees led by Bishop Mark Kariuki, Bishop Elly Rop and Arch-Bishop Maurice Muhatia, with nine counties having given their views so far. 

“We have heard and listened to their views and as soon as the whole nation gives their input, we shall embark on putting down their views and come up with a comprehensive report," Bishop Rop said at the end of the session. 

Courtesy ; K. N. A