Malindi pastor’s bizarre rituals spark calls for crackdown on rogue religious leaders
Clerics representing various faith groups spoke out, urging authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the pastor’s activities.
The arrest of New Foundation Church pastor Abel Kahindi Gandi has drawn widespread condemnation from religious leaders in Malindi, who accuse him of exploiting vulnerable followers through questionable religious practices.
Clerics representing various faith groups spoke out, urging authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the pastor’s activities.
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Controversy surrounds rituals allegedly conducted at Gandi’s church, including compelling individuals believed to be 'possessed' to climb a so-called ‘tree of life’ during exorcisms, and the use of “living water” in ceremonies.
Critics argue these acts have no grounding in established Christian or Islamic teachings.
The tree Gandi has been claiming to be “the tree of life”. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
Bishop Willybard Lagho, the chairperson of the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya, expressed concern that despite past tragedies, sections of Kilifi County remain vulnerable to rogue pastors.
"It is alarming that misguided faith still thrives in our midst. Not every person claiming the title of pastor deserves the public's trust. As religious leaders, we must safeguard our faith’s integrity and protect our communities,” said Bishop Lagho.
Drawing parallels to previous incidents, Reverend Paul Mutunga, who heads the Malindi Interfaith Committee, referenced the Shakahola tragedy, where preacher Paul Nthenge Mackenzie’s teachings led to over 400 deaths.
“Our religious teachings are meant to unite, heal, and inspire hope. These bizarre rituals are nowhere to be found in the Bible or the Quran,” Rev. Mutunga said.
Traditional African religion leaders also weighed in.
Lacks godliness
Joseph Karisa Mwarandu, the secretary-general of the Malindi District Cultural Association, criticised Gandi’s actions as lacking any form of godliness.
"It is shameful that someone claiming religious authority would engage in such practices," said Mwarandu.
Meanwhile, Sheikh Farhan Abdikadir Mohamed of the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK), reiterated the sanctity of human life, calling for stronger collaboration between religious organisations and government agencies.
“We condemn these practices in the strongest terms and call for joint efforts to curb the spread of such harmful teachings,” Sheikh Farhan said.
Gandi was apprehended after security officials from the Kilifi County Security Committee raided his church, located about two kilometres from Chakama trading centre in Malindi Sub-County.
Following his interrogation, the church was closed indefinitely.
A Malindi court has allowed police to detain Gandi for ten days as investigations continue, paving the way for possible criminal charges.
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