Bill proposes hefty fines for preachers who swindle followers with false promises

The presidential task force on the Review of the Legal and Regulatory Framework Governing Religious Organisations in Kenya has unveiled a series of stringent measures targeting deceptive practices by religious institutions.

The details contained in the Religious Organisations Bill, 2024, aim to provide clarity on how religious institutions would be governed, following the Shakahola tragedy, where over 400 bodies were discovered in a forest linked to cult leader Paul Mackenzie.

Among the recommendations proposed include fining religious leaders who solicit money from their congregations with promises of “financial favour from God”.

According to the task force, these leaders will be slapped with a Sh5 million fine, as they will be guilty of committing an offence which could also lead to ten-year imprisonment or both.

“A religious leader who by means of any false and fraudulent representations, tricks or schemes as to healing, miracles, blessings or prayers, extorts or fraudulently obtains any financial gain or material benefit from any person or induces the person to deliver money or property to the religious leader commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding Sh5 million or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years or to both,” reads the bill.

Additionally, religious leaders who use force, threats, or intimidation to coerce individuals into joining their faith will face fines of up to Sh1 million, a three-year jail term, or both.

However, the bill notes that parents will be legally allowed to determine the religious upbringing of their children.

Further, the bill also proposes that anyone who uses religion to demean or threaten the beliefs of others will be fined Sh5 million or imprisoned for up to 20 years, or both.

The task force also recommended that churches which will be found engaging in politics to gain power or organise a debate to support a political candidate will be liable for a fine not exceeding Sh500,000 or a six-month imprisonment or both.

The task force was formed in May 2023 to identify and seal loopholes that may have allowed the growth of religious cults. It was led by former National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) General Secretary Mutava Musyimi.

The draft bill has been submitted to President Ruto, and if approved by Parliament, it will significantly impact religious practices in Kenya once it becomes law.