Strict regulations to be rolled out over religious extremism- CS Murkomen

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has disclosed that the Cabinet is preparing to review a report from the Presidential taskforce on the legal framework governing religious institutions in Kenya.

According to Murkomen, a Cabinet sub-committee has already reviewed the findings and recommendations made by the taskforce, which was chaired by Rev. Mutava Musyimi.

The report outlines key reforms aimed at addressing the rise of religious extremism in the country.

Murkomen noted that the full Cabinet will deliberate on the report in the coming week, after which it will be forwarded to Parliament for further discussion and potential adoption.

"The Cabinet sub-committee has gone through a set of proposals from the taskforce led by Rev. Musyimi, which outlines a legal structure for regulating churches. The report will be tabled before the Cabinet next week for approval and subsequent submission to the National Assembly," said the CS.

His remarks came in the wake of a troubling incident in Migori County, where two individuals died and 57 others were rescued from a church after allegedly refusing medical treatment on religious grounds.

Murkomen praised law enforcement officers in Migori for their prompt response in dealing with the church, which is suspected of promoting teachings that violate the Constitution.

"The process is progressing, and the suggested reforms will be addressed. Individuals involved in radical religious practices that endanger followers will face the law. While religious bodies are registered in good faith, some exploit their followers by promoting misleading doctrines," he explained.

While recognizing the significant role faith-based organizations play in society, Murkomen criticized those that misuse religion to exploit vulnerable individuals in search of spiritual guidance.

"The police acted swiftly and arrested the culprits," confirmed the CS on the Migori incident, allaying fears of a recurrence of a Shakahola-type massacre.

The tragic events in Kilifi County, which exposed glaring gaps in the oversight of religious institutions, prompted President William Ruto to form a 14-member taskforce in 2023 to review the existing legal framework.

Speaking on the matter, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized that regulating religious bodies is crucial in protecting vulnerable citizens from falling prey to manipulative leaders who promote extremist ideologies under the guise of faith.

"Introducing regulations for religious organizations is a safeguard for Kenyans, especially those easily influenced by rogue preachers who promise solutions through radical teachings," Murkomen stated.

He urged members of the public to work hand in hand with security agencies by reporting any suspicious religious activities before they escalate, referencing the Shakahola tragedy, where multiple mass graves were uncovered in a forest in Kilifi County.

"I appeal to citizens to share any information they might have. Timely action can save lives," he said, warning security personnel that inaction on credible intelligence from the public would not be tolerated.

He further stressed that local administrators, such as assistant chiefs and chiefs, would be held responsible for lapses within their jurisdictions.

The taskforce’s recommendations include establishing a comprehensive policy framework to combat religious extremism, cults, and sect-like behavior.

The aim is to ensure greater accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct within religious organizations.

Murkomen acknowledged that some religious leaders are wary of the proposed reforms but maintained that the initiative is designed to encourage self-regulation while strengthening state oversight to prevent abuse in the sector.

Murkomen made the remarks while speaking to journalists following a closed-door meeting with Kitui County security officials.

The meeting marked the beginning of his Jukwaa la Usalama tour in the Lower Eastern Region, which focuses on public engagement, mobile ID registration outreach, and other related initiatives.

He was accompanied by Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service, Gilbert Masengeli, Members of Parliament Rachel Nyamai (Kitui South) and Nimrod Mbai (Kitui East), as well as senior officials from the Interior Ministry.