Joseph Isangura
District Commissioner Julius Mtatiro of Shinyanga has taken decisive action by ordering the closure of a local Church of God in Mendo village, following troubling allegations of misconduct. The church’s pastor and associates stand accused of persuading members, particularly pregnant women, to avoid medical clinics and instead give birth at the church, a practice deemed risky by health experts.
The closure comes in the wake of an incident on June 17, 2024, when a 24-year-old church member attempted to deliver her baby at the church under the pastor’s guidance. When complications arose, her parents intervened and rushed her to a clinic, where doctors managed to save her life but were unable to save the baby.
Commissioner Mtatiro, accompanied by the District Security Committee, emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, citing concerns over public health and safety. He referenced historical tragedies in Uganda and Kenya involving similar practices, underscoring the district’s commitment to preventing such incidents from occurring in Shinyanga.
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The church leadership faces multiple accusations, including discouraging members from using traditional family names and instead promoting names endorsed by the church. Additionally, the pastor allegedly instructed followers to plant crops during specific rainy seasons, resulting in significant agricultural losses for those who complied.
Local reactions to the closure have been mixed, with some residents supporting the commissioner’s actions as necessary for protecting community welfare, while others remain loyal to the church despite the controversies.
Authorities have assured the public of ongoing investigations into the church’s practices and intend to pursue legal actions if wrongdoing is confirmed. The closure marks a pivotal moment in the district’s efforts to regulate religious institutions and ensure compliance with laws safeguarding public health and safety.
