The government is moving to tighten oversight on religious organisations amid growing concern over cases where faith-based institutions have endangered the lives of their followers.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen says the Cabinet is set to deliberate on a set of proposals designed to introduce clear legal boundaries for the operation of religious groups in Kenya. The proposals come from a presidential taskforce formed in response to the Shakahola tragedy, where dozens lost their lives after falling prey to cult-like doctrines.
“We are not attacking religion,” Murkomen said, “but we must protect Kenyans from harmful practices disguised as divine instruction.”
The taskforce, led by Rev. Mutava Musyimi, has recommended the creation of a regulatory framework that would help distinguish genuine religious practice from exploitative or extreme movements that manipulate vulnerable followers.
Murkomen’s comments follow a disturbing incident in Migori, where a church group rejected medical help, leading to the death of two people. Authorities rescued over 50 others from the same congregation, an operation the CS credited to swift security response.
The proposed reforms, once adopted by Cabinet and passed in Parliament, are expected to set firm rules for registration, doctrine transparency, and operational oversight of religious entities. Murkomen stressed that while the government values the role of faith institutions in society, it must also step in where lives are put at risk.
He also urged citizens to be vigilant and proactive, encouraging communities to share early warnings before tragedies occur. “We are urging the public to work hand in hand with local administration and security officers. Prevention starts at the grassroots,” he said.
As debate over religious freedoms and state intervention continues, the pending legislation signals a shift toward accountability and a clear message that faith cannot be used as a cover for harm.
