Principal Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Raymond Omollo, has announced that the government will implement tighter measures to address the rise of religious extremism in the country.

Omollo, in a statement on his official X account posted on Friday, September 19, 2025, said curbing extremism demands a multi-pronged approach that goes beyond law enforcement. He emphasised the central role of faith-based institutions, legislative reforms, and community resilience in countering the threat.

“Curbing religious extremism requires a multi-pronged approach,” he said

Push for accountability in faith-based institutions

According to Omollo, faith-based organisations must play an active role in ensuring integrity within their ranks.

“First, faith-based institutions must embrace self-regulation to uphold accountability and integrity within the religious community,” he said.

This comes amid growing concern over rogue preachers and organisations that exploit vulnerable populations, with the government now calling for greater responsibility from religious leaders themselves.

Legislation and support for victims

Omollo further revealed that the government is moving forward with legislative measures aimed at bringing more scrutiny to religious groups. “We are advancing legislation to vet religious organisations and their leaders, ensuring only credible institutions operate within our borders,” he stated.

The PS added that the state is equally prioritising the welfare of individuals and communities affected by extremist teachings. “Equally important, we are strengthening safety nets for the vulnerable and creating pathways for reintegration, so that victims of religious extremism can rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society,” he said.

The announcement signals a broader shift in how the government intends to deal with extremism, seeking not only to curb the spread of harmful ideologies but also to rehabilitate and reintegrate those who have been drawn into them.

Omollo’s statement underlines the government’s commitment to safeguarding Kenyans from the dangers of religious extremism while ensuring that genuine religious institutions continue to thrive within an accountable and regulated environment.