The Religious Organizations Bill 2024, introduced by Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana, has sparked widespread criticism from various religious groups nationwide.
In Nairobi, leaders from the Pentecostal Association have firmly rejected the bill, calling for its immediate withdrawal.
Pastor Habil Olembu of Arena Miracles Covenant Church expressed a common sentiment, stating, “We demand that the church be respected.
The church can function independently of the government, but the government relies on us.”
One of the most controversial provisions of the bill requires churches to pay taxes on income, gifts, or profits from lawful activities.
Under this proposal, tax exemptions would only apply if the revenues are entirely allocated to charitable purposes.
This has raised alarm among clergy members.
Bishop John Omolo, Secretary of the Bishops Council, voiced concerns about the lack of public engagement in the bill’s development, saying, “We are demanding thorough public participation.
If none was done, we will need to revisit this; otherwise, we will seek legal action.”
Bishop Kamuri Muya, Chairperson of the Bishops Council, stressed the necessity of involving religious leaders in discussions about regulations.
“We are not against regulation, but we want to participate in shaping laws that are acceptable to us,” he stated.
The bill also includes harsh penalties for non-compliance, with fines reaching up to 5 million shillings or imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
Additionally, it proposes establishing a theological training curriculum and a code of conduct for religious leaders.
Mungatana has argued that the Religious Organizations Bill 2024 seeks to combat extremism and address issues posed by unregulated religious organizations that have emerged in recent years.
The ongoing debate underscores the importance of dialogue between lawmakers and religious leaders to ensure that regulations respect the autonomy of religious organizations while addressing valid concerns.
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