The Government has recently deregistered several churches, including the Newlife Prayer Centre led by Pastor Ezekiel Odero.
The decision was formalized through a gazette notice dated August 3, 2023. The notice also listed the deregistration of four other religious organizations. The action was taken in accordance with the powers granted by section 12 (1) of the Societies Act.
Pastor Ezekiel of Newlife Prayer Center. His church is amongst those that have been deregistered by the government. Photo| Courtesy
Registrar of Societies, Maria Nyariki, announced the cancellations. She indicated that the affected societies’ registrations were nullified with effect from specified dates.
Alongside Newlife Prayer Centre, other churches that faced deregistration included;
Good news International Ministries
Helicopter of Christ Church
Theophilus Church
Kings Outreach Church
Additionally, the Royal Park Home Owners Estate Association Langata, originally registered as a society, was also cancelled, effective June 19, 2023.
From left: Pastor Ezekiel Odero of Newlife Church, Pastor Paul Mackenzie of Goodnews International Ministries, Pastor Thomas Wahome of Helicopter of Christ Ministries, Reverend Rachel Wa Kuria of Theophilus Church, Prophet David Owuor of Kings Outreach Church. Photo| Courtesy
“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 12 (1) of the Societies Act, the Registrar of Societies cancels the registration of the societies specified in the first column of the Schedule, with effect from the respective dates specified in the third column of the schedule.”
Maria Nyariki
Calls to regulate religious organizations had been gaining momentum. Consequently, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua joined the conversation and urged religious leaders to support the government’s initiative to review regulations governing such groups.
Gachagua emphasized the importance of streamlining the registration and records of religious organizations to ensure transparency and accountability.
The Deputy President’s statements came amidst the public discussions surrounding the tragic Shakahola deaths. While cautioning against generalizing the actions of all churches and clergy members, he highlighted the need for accurate information and data. He added that a task force led by President William Ruto is currently seeking to gather. This endeavor aims to identify areas for improvement and address potential issues within religious organizations.
Furthermore, Deputy President Gachagua expressed concerns about individuals who exploit religious texts, particularly the Bible, for personal gain.
He warned that such actions were unacceptable and that the government was determined to eliminate those who engage in such behavior. The task force’s comprehensive review is seen as a critical step toward weeding out any malpractices that may have crept into religious institutions.
“The information being sought by a Taskforce formed by President William Ruto is intended to help streamline the registration and records of the religious groups.”
