In a bold move, Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has justified the controversial closure of numerous Evangelical churches, describing them as havens for dishonest practices and relics of colonial influence.
The closures stem from a 2018 regulation designed to oversee religious institutions, which Kagame ardently supports. This law has led to the shutdown of over 10,000 churches, according to AFP. It mandates theological training for preachers and enforces health, safety, and financial transparency standards. Additionally, religious buildings must be soundproofed, and churches are required to align their annual plans with national values.
Among the affected institutions is the Grace Room Ministries, an Evangelical church known for attracting large congregations to Kigali’s BK Arena. The church was closed in May for failing to meet documentation requirements and engaging in unauthorized activities.
President Kagame has expressed a strong stance against reopening the closed churches, questioning their contributions to Rwanda’s progress. He remarked, “In all the development challenges we are dealing with, the wars, our country’s survival … what is the role of these churches. … Are they also providing jobs? Many are just thieving.”
The Rwandan government insists that church donations be processed through registered accounts and that churches submit plans demonstrating adherence to national values.
Pastor Sam Rugira, whose church branches were closed last year due to fire safety issues, criticized the government’s approach. He argued that the rules predominantly impact newer Evangelical churches and suggested that the government should assist in meeting the necessary standards rather than shutting them down.
Despite compliance, some churches remain closed, prompting concerns among religious leaders. A Kigali pastor noted that Kagame’s apparent disdain for churches indicates challenging times ahead.
Political analyst Louis Gitinywa commented on the ruling party’s resistance to any group that gains significant public influence. A government official, preferring anonymity, echoed this sentiment.
Muslim leaders in Rwanda have also voiced their worries, especially regarding restrictions on public calls to prayer. Although the Rwandan Constitution’s Article 37 guarantees religious freedom, the law’s enforcement has been inconsistent, prompting some Muslim clerics to consider challenging these restrictions.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
