In a decisive move against the rise of cult leaders, advocates of religious extremism, and fake prophets, Kenya has sworn in two investigative teams tasked with probing the conduct of these unscrupulous religious leaders.
The teams will also examine the regulatory framework governing religion in the country.
The first team, the Commission of Inquiry, aims to unravel the circumstances that led to the tragic Shakahola massacre.
The second team will focus on identifying gaps in the existing legal and governance systems to propose changes that can effectively combat religious extremism. Both teams were sworn in on Tuesday and are expected to commence their work immediately.
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The Taskforce on the Review of the Legal and Regulatory Framework Governing Religious Organisations, headed by Rev Mutava Musyimi, a former General Secretary of the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), consists of 14 members.
The task force’s primary objective is to formulate standards and minimum certification requirements for all religious organizations and their leaders to ensure proper registration and operation.
Additionally, the task force has been mandated to identify weaknesses in the legal, institutional, and governance systems that have allowed cults and extremist groups to flourish.
It will propose mechanisms through which the public can report cases of religious extremism, empowering individuals to take an active role in combating this alarming trend.
This move by Kenya reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens from the harmful influence of unscrupulous religious leaders and ensuring the peaceful practice of faith across the country.
The investigations and subsequent regulatory changes are expected to promote transparency, accountability, and responsible leadership within religious organizations, fostering a safer and more inclusive religious environment for all Kenyans.
