Ruto Defends Religious Freedom, Rejects State Regulation of Kenyan Churches

President William Ruto has reaffirmed the Kenyan government's commitment to protecting freedom of worship, rejecting proposals to regulate religious activities.

During a church service at AIC Milimani in Nairobi on October 6, 2024, President Ruto emphasized the constitutional guarantee of religious freedom and called upon religious leaders to develop their accountability measures. This declaration comes in response to the controversial Religious Organizations Bill 2024, proposed by Senator Danson Mungatana of Tana River. The bill sought to introduce stringent oversight of religious institutions, including mandatory taxation of income and the establishment of a Religious Affairs Commission.

Under the proposed legislation, religious organizations would have been required to submit financial records and membership registers, facing potential fines or imprisonment for non-compliance. President Ruto's firm opposition to the bill aligns with his administration's stance on preserving religious liberties. He assures Kenyans that the government would defend the right to worship without compromise, citing the constitutional protections in place. This position has elicited varied responses from religious leaders across the country.

The Pentecostal Association has strongly endorsed the President's stance, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the proposed bill. Pastor Habil Olembu of Arena Miracles Covenant Church voices the sentiment of many, calling for respect towards religious institutions. However, some religious leaders acknowledge the need for internal regulations to maintain credibility and prevent potential abuses of religious platforms. The Religious Organizations Bill 2024, submitted to President Ruto on July 30 by a presidential task force, proposed comprehensive measures including the re-registration of religious bodies, standardization of theological training, and a code of conduct for religious leaders.

These proposals were aimed at addressing concerns over extremism and the proliferation of unregulated religious organizations in recent years. With the rejection of governmental regulation, the onus now falls on religious leaders to establish their own guidelines for accountability and transparency. This self-regulatory approach presents an opportunity for religious institutions to demonstrate their commitment to ethical practices while preserving their autonomy.