The government has officially shut down the Melkio St. Joseph Mission of Messiah in Africa, located in Rongo Sub County, following suspicious activities at the premises including the death of two members just two days ago.
Rongo Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) George Matundura issued the closure order and instructed that detained church members, currently held at the Rongo Police Station, appoint four representatives to accompany police officers in retrieving their belongings from the church.
The closure came after security officers raided the compound and rescued 57 ill individuals who had reportedly been living there in search of healing.
Commissioner Matundura also directed that all residents of the church, including its leaders, return to their homes.
Children who are total orphans will be placed in the care of the Children’s Department for relocation to safe facilities.
However, the decision has faced opposition from the church’s legal representative, Benard Achola. He criticized the DCC’s move, claiming it was unilateral and based solely on allegations.
“The DCC acted without proper basis. A public health officer was sent to inspect the premises, but none of the church members were present to confirm the visit,” said Achola.
He argued that the church, which has operated for decades, is being targeted without valid cause.
Achola also questioned the legality of detaining church members, stating, “Their continued detention is unlawful as no specific charges have been made.”
He announced plans to challenge the closure in court in an effort to reverse the government’s decision.
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