Makau Mutua launches attack on churches, calls for their taxation

Political analyst Makau Mutua has voiced strong opinions on the state of religious leadership in Kenya, advocating for taxation.

Makau said Kenya had fake pastors, bishops, evangelists, reverends, and prophets with his comments coming at a time when the role of the Church and its leaders is under intense scrutiny from the public.

Makau Mutua's on exploitation

Mutua believes that a significant portion of religious leaders in Kenya are exploiting their followers for personal gain.

He claimed that 75% of pastors and bishops are functionally illiterate but have found a lucrative business in religion, taking advantage of the faith and trust of gullible Kenyans

"KENYA has too many fake pastors, bishops, evangelists, reverends — even prophets. Over 75% of them are frauds. Majority are functionally Illiterate. It’s a lucrative business for them. 'Religion' pays. That’s how they fleece gullible Kenyans. Tax, prosecute, and defrock them!" Mutua stated in a post on his X account.

Mutua's remarks follow recent incidents that have put the Church under a critical spotlight. The Holy Family Basilica faced severe backlash after denying entry to protesters seeking refuge from police during anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.

The Church defended its actions, citing concerns for the safety of students at the Holy Family Minor Basilica Catholic Parochial School within its compound.

Church criticism

Despite this clarification, criticism of the Church has persisted, particularly over its perceived silence on the Finance Bill 2024 issue. Various churches have issued statements addressing the bill, yet many feel that the Church's response has been insufficient.

The Church has also been criticized for its close ties to political figures and for accepting substantial donations from them.

This criticism was heightened following President William Ruto's rejection of the Finance Bill 2024. Shortly after, Ruto met with church leaders, including bishops from the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), which led to further public disapproval.

Netizens and sections of the public have condemned the Church for its involvement with politicians, particularly in light of the deaths of several protesters during the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations. This has fueled the debate on the need for greater accountability and transparency within religious institutions in Kenya.