In a much-welcomed move, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has officially declared Good News International Ministries (GNIM), a church linked with the controversial leader Pastor Paul Makenzie, an organized criminal group under the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act.
This pronouncement, effective immediately, throws the controversial faith-based organization into the heart of Kenya's ongoing battle against criminal syndicates.
"IN EXERCISE of the powers conferred by section 22 (1) of the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares Good News International Ministries to be an organized criminal group for the purposes of the Act." declared Kindiki in a terse statement released earlier today.
The statement follows the bizarre happenings at the church, which include systematic exploitation of vulnerable individuals, financial malfeasance, suspected involvement in transnational organized crime and loss of lives.
This development marks a significant escalation in the government's scrutiny of the church, which has long faced several accusations
Read More
Several former members revealed harrowing accounts of their experiences within the organization, alleging exploitative practices and psychological manipulation.
Mackenzie who is currently in custody, has vehemently denied these allegations, calling them "blasphemous attacks by detractors."
However, Kindiki's declaration carries serious weight.
The move also sends a strong message to other potentially dubious faith-based organizations operating in Kenya, highlighting the government's resolve to crack down on exploitative and criminal activities hiding under religion.
The immediate impact of this declaration on GNIM's operations remains uncertain.
The organization has yet to issue an official response, and its loyal followers may choose to rally behind Mackenzie.
However, the Kenyan public has largely welcomed the news, with many citizens expressing relief and hope that justice will be served.