Nyeri Archbishop Antony Muheria has called for an audit of religious leaders’ wealth in order to root out rogue religious clerics.
Muheria believes that audits should be conducted through umbrella bodies and that laws should be enacted to deter wrongdoing by clergy.
Speaking at a press conference in Nyeri on Wednesday, the Bishop said that most preachers have become careless by choosing the path to wealth other than giving hope to their faithfuls.
He said that as a result many of them are accumulating a lot, a thing that has made them multi-millionaires in less than an year after venturing into prosperity gospel.
“There should be laws that govern and regulate the churches so that not everyone is able to set up a church,” he added.
Muheria said that he will be on the front line when clergy members are called to declare their wealth, adding that this shall be the onset to regularising religious institutions.
“I will lead in declaring my worth to the public. This is the only way we protect Kenyans from rogue religious leaders. God is not a magician that can promise wealth without hard work,” he said.
According to Muheria, cult churches such as the one led by controversial pastor Paul Makenzia, are the result of greed.
He went on to say that the murders in Shakahola are a clear indication of how deep corruption is rooted in the church and society.
“Our systems are corrupt and it also shows the corruption in our churches, where people are using religion for personal gain. What has happened in Kilifi is a result of manipulation and is tremendous evil,” he said.
“…they are using deception on gullible Kenyans with the gospel of prosperity without hard work. How foolish can we be?” he asked.
He acknowledged that his request would be met with opposition because corrupt church leaders have already amassed huge wealth.
While sending his condolences to the families affected, he called on all agencies who can help in offering counselling to do so and help the families handle the loss and revelation with love.
“Even as we condemn what has happened, let us not forget there are people who are hurting,” he added.
