The new rules to regulate houses of worship are an aggression against freedom of worship and must be rejected, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka said yesterday.
“I must remind the Jubilee government that the freedom of worship is an absolute freedom as guaranteed by the constitution,” he said in a statement to newsrooms.
The Cord co-principal urged Kenyans to rally behind churches and reject the rules.
Christian and Muslim leaders have vowed to fight the proposed laws in and out of the houses of worship, and even in court.
The new rules are set to be gazetted at the end of January, officials at the Attorney General’s office said on Sunday.
They will, however, be operational after a year.
Under the new rules, clerics are required to submit certificates of good conduct and theological training.
The AG and Communication Authority propose banning preachers from recruiting people to their faith or asking them to get saved, as they often do at the end their radio and TV broadcasts.
The Religious Societies Rules published by the AG’s office also require all religious organisations to submit their constitutions showing statement of their doctrine of faith.
The religious societies must give details of their programmes, ministries and charitable and education activities and information of persons coordinating these activities.
According to the new rules, all religious societies must be registered and open to the registrar’s inspection any time.
Religious leaders must declare familial relations with other religious leaders and officers.
Officers include secretary, treasurer, trustees and committee members.
