Ksh.5 Million Penalty for Fake Miracle Workers Under New Taskforce Recommendations
In a groundbreaking move to regulate religious institutions, a presidential task force has proposed stringent measures to curb fraudulent practices among religious leaders in Kenya. The task force, formed by President William Ruto, aims to establish a clear legal framework that governs religious organizations, safeguarding the public from exploitation.
Central to these recommendations is the introduction of heavy penalties for religious leaders who engage in deceptive practices. Any pastor or religious figure who falsely claims to perform miracles, healings, or blessings, with the intent to extort money from unsuspecting followers, will be held accountable under the proposed Religious Organisations Bill, 2024.
The bill mandates that those found guilty of such fraudulent activities will face severe consequences, including a fine of up to Ksh.5 million, a prison term of up to ten years, or both. This move is seen as a significant step towards protecting vulnerable individuals from being preyed upon by unscrupulous religious leaders.
The bill also targets religious leaders who coerce individuals to join their faith through threats or intimidation. Offenders in this category will face a fine of up to Ksh.1 million, a three-year prison sentence, or both. Moreover, the task force recommends penalties for those who use religion to belittle or endanger others based on their beliefs, with offenders facing fines of up to Ksh.5 million, 20 years imprisonment, or both.
In a bid to maintain the sanctity of religious institutions, the task force also proposes a ban on churches engaging in political activities. Any church found guilty of supporting political candidates or organizing political debates will be liable to pay a fine of up to Ksh.500,000, serve six months in jail, or both.
These proposals, if enacted, will mark a new era in the governance of religious institutions in Kenya, ensuring that faith remains a force for good and not a tool for exploitation.
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Ksh.5 Million Penalty for Fake Miracle Workers Under New Taskforce Recommendations
