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The Nairobian

Lobbies differ on proposed laws meant to tame clerics

Counties

By Philip Mwakio and Linah Benyawa | Jan 11, 2016

Haki Africa Executive Director Hussein Khalid

Mombasa-based civil society group, Haki Africa, has welcomed the new regulations meant to streamline religious organisations.

The rules require that the clergy must hold a certificate from an accredited theological institution as part of the Government's oversight.

Haki Africa Executive Director Hussein Khalid said this requirement will ensure all clerics align to basic laws and requirements of a nation.

"I do not think it is a bad idea. There have been instances of religious leaders engaging in rape, theft and other evils in the society," he said.

He noted the same rules should be made applicable to politicians. But speaking on phone from Kwale, Al Kahf Islamic Welfare Group Director Amir Banda said the introduction of such requirements will not help Kenya win the war against terrorism.

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"We are seeing them pass draconian rules which are detrimental to the well-being of Kenyans," he said.

He added both the Bible and the Quran have clear rules and it is wrong for Kenyans to try and copy Western ideologies.

Mr Banda accused Parliament of being ineffective in discharging its duties.

And the secretary of the Mombasa Church Forum Stanley Prince Sunday said his organisation has received the new rules, adding that the Attorney General should not infringe on the right to worship and freely exercise faith.

"It would have been prudent for the AG to consult the clergy before publishing the rules. There might be a need to revisit some provisions," Prince said.