Church leaders in Nakuru have hit back at proposed government oversight, warning that regulating religious institutions would breach Kenya’s Constitution.
Senior Rt. Rev. Amos Wandera of the Ministry of Repentance and Holiness, flanked by Maj. Gen. (Rtd) George Kyana and Senior Archbishop Michael Nieswand, said State interference risks violating Article 32, which guarantees freedom of conscience, belief, and opinion.
The clergy argued that government regulation could blur the line between State and church, a sensitive issue in Kenya where religious institutions often influence politics and local communities.
“The Church must remain independent, and the State must respect its boundaries,” Wandera said.
Lawyer Willis Otieno weighed in, reminding Kenyans that the Constitution also sets limits for religious bodies. Speaking on X, he highlighted Article 8, which bans a State religion, and Article 32, protecting religious freedom.
“Freedom of religion does not allow churches to take over the State. Likewise, separation of church and State does not mean persecuting faith institutions,” Otieno said.
He stressed that while the government cannot dictate theology, appoint clergy, or police belief, churches cannot wield State power, enforce prophecies as law, or use religion to cover fraud, abuse, or endanger public safety.
“Where public resources or safety are involved, the law applies regardless of faith,” Otieno added.
The debate follows past cases of financial mismanagement and safety concerns in some churches, prompting calls for accountability.
With no formal regulations yet published, the discussion over the role of the State in religious affairs is set to continue, involving legal experts, religious leaders, and policymakers.