PRESS STATEMENT: FIDA-Kenya Condemns Religious Extremism by Bethel for Jesus Ministry International

Nairobi, Kenya, 26th February 2025 – The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) is outraged by a viral video showing an elderly woman being set on fire by members of the Bethel for Jesus Ministry International church in Kapkwen, Bomet County, to ‘rid her of evil spirits.’ Shockingly, some of the ‘church’ members dared to go on camera and boast about this horrific act. According to the police reports, this church is also responsible for the caning and serious injuries inflicted on two other women in similar attempts to ‘exorcise evil spirits.‘ It is regrettable that women continue to experience unprecedented gender-based violence, even in places that are meant for worship.

FIDA-Kenya acknowledges that Bomet County Police Commander, Mr. Edward Imbwaga, has assured the public that the Bethel for Jesus Ministry International has been shut down and that the police are actively pursuing the suspects, including the church’s ‘pastor.’ We hope the suspects will be arrested and charged in court within the shortest time possible.

FIDA-Kenya requests the County Government of Bomet to put in place measures for safeguarding women against all forms of violence. We call upon the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and Judiciary to ensure swift prosecution of such crimes to deter future occurrences. We also call upon religious leaders to openly condemn these religious extremist teachings, including Christian cults, which are becoming more common. Additionally, the general public and communities should remain vigilant against such acts and report any suspicious teachings to the police or relevant government agencies.

There is a worrying trend in the country of increasing violence against women if recent trends are anything to go by. For instance, the Shakahola Massacre, which led to the death of over 400 innocent people, primarily women and children, in Kilifi County, is yet to be concluded despite the apprehension of the church leaders alleged to be behind the heinous crime. Like the Shakahola Massacre, the extremist behaviour by Bethel for Jesus Ministry International church points to a failure in effectively monitoring religious groups by both the government and religious organisations.

FIDA-Kenya emphasises the urgent need to protect vulnerable communities, particularly women and children, from religious exploitation. Parliament must prioritise passing laws to regulate religious organisations and their agents’ conduct. Places of worship should provide spiritual nourishment, moral and ethical guidance, comfort, community, and order. We remain committed to offering legal aid and psychosocial support to supporting these women who are victims of violence through our toll-free number, 0800 720 501.

Christine Kungu

FIDA-Kenya Chairperson

For more information or media inquiries, please contact Mark Owuor via owuorm@fidakenya.org