The government has deregistered the New Life Prayer Centre and Church, which is led by Pastor Ezekiel Odero. The deregistration was announced on August 17, 2023, by the Registrar of Societies, Jane Joram.
The government had accused the church of failing to file its annual returns for the past 10 years. The church had also been under investigation for money laundering and cult-like practices.
Pastor Ezekiel Odero has denied the allegations against him and his church. He has said that he is being persecuted by the government. He has also filed a lawsuit challenging the deregistration of his church.
The deregistration of Pastor Ezekiel’s church is a significant development. It is the first time that a church has been deregistered in Kenya for failing to file its annual returns. It is also the first time that a church has been deregistered for being under investigation for money laundering and cult-like practices.
The deregistration of Pastor Ezekiel’s church is likely to have a chilling effect on other churches in Kenya. It sends a message that the government is serious about enforcing the law and that it will not tolerate religious organizations that are not complying with the law.
It remains to be seen whether Pastor Ezekiel will be able to overturn the deregistration of his church. However, the deregistration is a major setback for him and his ministry.
Here are some additional details about the deregistration:
- The government had sent a notice to Pastor Ezekiel Odero in April 2023, asking him to file his annual returns for the past 10 years. He did not file the returns by the deadline, so the government deregistered the church.
- The church has been under investigation by the police for money laundering and cult-like practices. The police have not released any details about the investigation, but they have said that it is ongoing.
- Pastor Ezekiel Odero has denied all of the allegations against him and his church. He has said that he is being persecuted by the government because of his political views.
- Pastor Ezekiel Odero has filed a lawsuit challenging the deregistration of his church. The case is still pending.
Other churches that have been removed from registration lists are Helicopter of Christ Church, Theophilus Church, Kings Outreach Church, and Goodnews International Ministries.
The deregistration of Pastor Ezekiel’s church is a complex issue with no easy answers. It is a matter of public interest, and it is important to keep an eye on the case as it progresses.