Kisoro Authorities Set to Shut Down Over 50 Unregistered Churches

Authorities in Kisoro District have announced a forthcoming crackdown on over 50 unregistered churches operating within the region. The move comes amid growing concerns about insecurity, financial exploitation of residents, and a rise in domestic violence incidents allegedly attributed to false prophecies from these unlicensed places of worship.

District officials stated that many of these churches have been established by individuals posing as pastors without any formal authorization. Principal Development Officer Sam Niyonzima warned that operating a worship center without proper registration and licensing is a violation of Ugandan law and will not be tolerated. “Some individuals are operating cults under the guise of worship centers and end up duping innocent people,” Niyonzima stated, adding that those found guilty will be arrested and prosecuted.

Deputy Resident District Commissioner Dan Ndikumwami indicated that the influx of unregistered churches might partly be due to a similar crackdown in neighboring Rwanda, with some operators reportedly relocating to Uganda. He revealed that the district has received numerous complaints from residents about churches fueling domestic conflicts through manipulative prophecies and practices. “These days I see some leaders of these mushrooming churches in Kisoro Town dressed like Popes or Archbishops. It is completely dramatic and we will not tolerate it,” Ndikumwami remarked.

Local leaders have also reported instances where these churches operate seasonally, sometimes for just a few weeks, before disappearing after allegedly defrauding followers. Concerns have also been raised about some operators running churches and bars concurrently, blurring the lines between spiritual services and commercial activities. Many of these establishments are reportedly run by foreigners from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo who rent rooms and quickly convert them into worship centers.

Religious leaders in Kisoro have largely endorsed the government’s planned enforcement, emphasizing the need for proper training and accountability in spiritual leadership. Bishop Steven Mbarushimana stressed that church leadership should not be taken lightly, requiring theological understanding and proper ordination. Pastor Elias Tukaheirwa urged emerging churches to adhere to government regulations and conduct responsible ministry.

The district has begun compiling reports on suspected illegal churches to facilitate a joint enforcement operation targeting both the operators and their followers.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kisoro-authorities-vow-crackdown-on-over-50-unregistered-churches-5449928