Azimio a Umoja-One Kenya coalition party leadership in Parliament has called for the regulation of churches, mosques, temples, and synagogues in Kenya.
Speaking on Monday, April 24, National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi said rogue characters are misleading Kenyans in the name of religion.
“We must come up with ways to stop deranged and criminal characters from destroying humanity in the name of religion,” Wandayi said.
“We support the call for tighter regulation of religious entities including churches, mosques, temples, and synagogues.”
This follows the revelation that dozens have died in Malindi, after their religious leader, Pastor Mackenzie Nthenge, allegedly influenced them to starve to death in order to “meet Jesus”.
Wandayi’s sentiments were echoed by Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo, who blamed the government for failing to play its part in averting the deaths.
“As all these were happening, where were the local security officers including the chiefs, police officers and even NIS (National Intelligence Service),” Madzayo said.
According to Inspector-General of Police Japhet Koome who visited the scene, 29 people had been rescued and taken to hospital.
Eight of those who had been rescued had died as of Monday mid-day, bringing the total tally of confirmed deaths to 58.
On Sunday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki termed the deaths as a “massacre” that had gone beyond the freedom of worship.
Kindiki is set to visit the area on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. The 800-acre Shakahola forest where the victims and cult followers have been hiding has been declared an active crime scene with more police officers deployed.
