Digital Communication Strategist Pauline Njoroge has criticized President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua after the Registrar of Societies deregistered five churches.
In a statement on Saturday, August 19, Njoroge revisited when Ida Odinga, wife to Azimio Coalition leader Raila Odinga, called on the government to regulate the operations of churches.
“Mama Ida Odinga did not even say churches should be closed down. Infact she just said churches should be regulated,” she posted.
However, Njoroge noted that the Kenya Kwanza Alliance attacked Ida in the run-up to the electiions and accused the Azimio team of trying to interfere with the operation of religious organizations.
Further, Njoroge accused the President and DP Gachagua of politicizing Ida Odinga’s proposal and using it a campaign tool.
“You should have seen Gachagua breathlessly explaining to ignorant congregations how the Odinga family was going to close the churches since “they don’t go to church themselves and don’t pay tithes. And the pastors and bishops giggled and clapped,” she said.
In addition, Njoroge wondered how the same team that opposed the regulation idea delisted churches, including one where DP Gachagua’s wife was an associate.
“Now his (Gachagua ) own government has closed a church which hosted Pastor Dorcas the wife and belonging to that pastor Ezekiel her mentor whom she defended,” stated Pauline Njoroge.
Also Read: Pastor Ezekiel’s Church Deregistered
When Ida Odinga caused a storm
In January 2022, Ida called for the regulation of some churches which she said were founded on wrong religious principles.
“We want worshippers to get quality sermons, that can only be achieved if the bishops and priests are well trained,” said Ida.
However, after a scathing attack by the Kenya Kwanza and a section of religious leaders, Ida Odinga withdrew her statements on regulation of Churches.
“I wish to this morning withdraw the statement I made to NCCK to regulate the churches under them.
It has come to my realization that my comments haven’t sat well with some members of the church. I sincerely apologise for the discomfort caused as I meant no harm to any person,” said Ida.
Ruto’s Church Regulation Promise
President Ruto and Gachagua assured Kenyans that their government would protect the freedom of the church.
During a prayer event in July 2022, Ruto stated that no Church would be closed if he is elected president.
Further, he said that registration of Churches will continue without any interference.
This, he said, was in line with the 2010 Constitution which provides for freedom of worship.
“My running mate and I promise that we will do whatever it takes to keep this country as a God-fearing nation.
We commit that no church will be closed under our watch,” said Ruto.
Also Read: Ruto Holds Closed-Door Meeting with Meg Whitman
Also, Gachagua promised their government would work closely with religious leaders.
Gachagua stated that they would ensure the word of God is celebrated and promoted in their regime.
“We will work with the religious leaders, we will keep our nation from practices that do not respect our God,” said Gachagua.
Shakahola Massacre
The debate on regulation of Churches was reignited by the Shakahola Massacre linked to pastor Paul Mackenzie.
As of August 2, the total number of reported deaths was 427.
Followers of preacher Paul Mackenzie were buried in the Shakahola forest located in Chakama Ranch after starving themselves to death.
Pastor Ezekiel was also arrested for allegedly being involved in the Shakahola Massacre.
This was reports emerged that he was in business with Makenzi.
However, the court freed Ezekiel after the State failed to give sufficient reason to extend his stay in police custody.
On August 18, the Registrar of Societies Maria Nyariki, through a Gazette Notice, announced delisting of 5 churches, including Pastor Ezekiel’s, without giving reasons.
Pauline Njoroge is out of the country on holiday. Before flying out, the State detained her and presented her in court before the court set her free.
