Man Dies Awaiting ‘Healing Prayers’ in Nairobi Mukuru Slums Church, Autopsy to Determine Cause
Nairobi, Kenya – Detectives in Nairobi are currently investigating the mysterious death of a 30-year-old man at a church facility in the Mukuru slums. Tragically, Francis Inaweti Muchera passed away on Tuesday while reportedly awaiting healing prayers. His unexpected death has ignited further debate surrounding the regulation of religious organizations in Kenya.
Details Emerge from the Incident at Mukuru Slums
According to police reports, Muchera’s wife brought him to the church for prayers because he was suffering from an illness. After a prayer session with the pastor, Muchera reportedly fell asleep and, devastatingly, never woke up. His wife waited for about an hour in vain before she sought out the pastor, who had apparently left the premises, to inform him her husband was unresponsive. Police were later notified and confirmed Muchera’s death upon arrival at the scene. Authorities also noted the deceased’s face was swollen, which prompted further inquiry.
Mukuru Slums Incident Investigation Underway: Autopsy is Key
Authorities have since moved Muchera’s body to the mortuary for an autopsy. Crucially, the post-mortem examination’s findings will guide the ongoing investigation, shedding light on the precise cause of death and informing detectives’ next steps.
Broader Context: Calls for Church Regulation Intensify
This somber incident fuels growing demands for stricter church regulation, especially for those suspected of occultism or exploiting vulnerable people. Just this week, the Cabinet approved key recommendations from the Presidential Taskforce on Religious Organizations. This landmark decision aims to protect religious integrity and curb exploitation.
Proposed Reforms for Religious Organizations
Inspired by the tragic Shakahola incident, these proposed reforms prioritize accountability among religious leaders through self-regulation, rather than direct state control. President William Ruto chaired the meeting at State House in Nairobi where these recommendations were greenlit.
Key proposals include:
- Enacting a robust legal framework to govern religious organizations.
- Establishing a dedicated Religious Affairs Commission.
- Strengthening existing umbrella faith organizations for improved coordination.
Furthermore, the model advocates for a blend of institutional autonomy and supportive oversight. It also calls for enhanced leadership standards, reforms to religious broadcasting, and comprehensive civic education to foster tolerance and prevent extremism. To ensure effective implementation, a multi-agency collaboration involving security agencies, interfaith platforms, and educational institutions will be established.