Shakahola cult: Membership restrictions
It has come to light that Good News International (GNI) Ministries, the contentious church connected to Paul Mackenzie, only allows anyone above the age of 18. This raises concerns about how the cleric persuaded young people to engage in significant doctrinal practices like fasting.
Following the shocking deaths in Shakahola Village, Kilifi County, which now stand at 201, a copy of the constitution and that of Newlife Prayer Centre and Church, linked to Pastor Ezekiel Ombok Odero, were obtained and sheds light on the workings of the two religious organizations in the center of the storm.
According to the by-laws that Attorney General Justin Muturi provided to the Senate Ad hoc Committee when he testified before it on Wednesday, Mackenzie’s ministry lists praying for the ill and assisting the impoverished as two of its objectives. Regarding the alleged starvation deaths of two children, Mackenzie is now being held in jail.
The Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana-led committee is presently looking into the circumstances surrounding the fatalities and the rise of what its chairman has referred to as “dark doctrines” in the nation as a result of the development of religious organizations.
Shakahola cult: Membership restrictions
This clause in the church’s bylaws is sure to stir some controversy since it makes it seem as though the pastor went against the letter of the law by ordering the kids to fast.
Additionally, it is expected to establish and run society branches, coach and educate leaders, plan prayer gatherings, and print Christian literature such as books, stickers, journals, and other publications and expressions.
The Church also cites running conference centers, theme parks, entertainment venues, and vacation resorts as one of its goals.
Any person above the age of 18 must meet the requirements outlined in Part 3(a) of the GNI ministries’ constitution in order to join.
“Such a person shall be eligible for membership in the society, and shall be subject to the approval of the [executive] committee or joining after prayers,” the requirements state in part.
The conditions under which someone may be ejected from the church are outlined in Part 3(b) of the charter.