According to a public notice issued by RGB, the decision follows multiple assessments of FBOs operating in Rwanda, which revealed issues such as non-compliance with legal requirements, poor governance, and persistent internal conflicts.
The organizations whose legal personality has been revoked include Rwanda Victory Mission, Pentecostal Out-Reach Church, International Missionary Society - Seven Day Adventist Church Reform Movement, Eglise De L'heure Prophetique Du Septieme Jour, and Communaute Methodist Unie International.
RGB has urged all faith-based organizations to strictly adhere to the law and standards established by the board.
"RGB urges all Faith-Based Organisations to adhere to strict observance of the law and promote good governance through internal mechanisms as required by the law," the notice reads in part.
Last year alone about 8,000 churches were shut down as part of a government effort to regulate religious practices and and compliance with the law.
The closures were primarily driven by concerns over safety standards, noise pollution, and the general welfare of congregants.
The government cited that some churches had violated building codes, failed to adhere to health and safety regulations, and lacked necessary permits.
The move also aimed to address issues such as unqualified religious leaders, some of whom were accused of exploiting followers.
The government has often emphasized the need for religious institutions to operate within the framework of the law and in a manner that does not pose risks to the health and safety of the public.
Addressing the closures in August last year, President Paul Kagame warned against those who establish churches to exploit Rwandans under the guise of religious devotion.
President Kagame expressed concern that some churches in Rwanda were established with the primary intent of siphoning off the limited wealth of Rwandans for the benefit of their founders, which he strongly opposed.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rgb-revokes-operations-of-5-faith-based-organizations
