Using ‘Miracle’ to Extort Kenyans Could Cost Kenyan Pastors 10 Years Behind Bars

A new bill in Kenya seeks to impose severe penalties on religious leaders who exploit their followers through false claims of miraculous interventions. 

The legislation proposes a fine of 5 million Kenyan shillings or up to 10 years imprisonment for offenders.

The bill reads:

Crackdown on Fraudulent Spiritual Practices

The task force, established by President William Ruto in May 2023, has put forward a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at regulating religious organizations in Kenya. 

These proposals, now incorporated into the Religious Organisations Bill, 2024, target a range of deceptive practices employed by some clergy members to extort money from their congregations.

Stringent Measures Against ‘Miracle’ Scams

One of the bill’s key focuses is on religious leaders who promise “financial favor from God” in exchange for monetary donations. T

The bill also addresses other forms of religious coercion and intolerance:

Background and Motivations

The task force, led by Dr. Mutava Musyimi, former Secretary-General of the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), was formed in response to growing concerns about religious cults in the country. 

Its recommendations aim to provide a clear legal framework for governing religious organizations while protecting citizens from exploitation.

Notably, the bill preserves parents’ rights to determine their children’s religious upbringing, striking a balance between regulation and religious freedom.