Joseph Isangura
A chilling discovery in Iringa, Tanzania, has left residents in shock after a woman was found living with the decomposing body of her pastor for two months, believing he would resurrect.
Agnes Mwakijale, a devoted member of the El-Huruma Church (EHC), is now in police custody as investigations continue.
Pastor John Chida, who reportedly passed away in early October 2024, was discovered on December 3 in an advanced state of decomposition in his house. The unusual circumstances surrounding the incident have raised questions about religious beliefs and practices within the community.
Amos Msole, Chairman of Isakalilo ‘C’ Sub-village in Kalenga Ward, recounted the events leading to the grim discovery. “Residents informed me about the pastor’s poor health in October, but no one followed up further. After weeks of silence and no activity from his home, I decided to check. On December 4, I broke down the door and found his decayed body inside. The stench was unbearable,” Msole said.
Mwakijale, who was found at the scene, explained her reasons for not reporting the death. According to her, Pastor Chida had assured his followers that he would “rest” and then return to life. “She genuinely believed that God had temporarily taken him and that he would resurrect,” Msole explained.
Investigations revealed that Mwakijale had been caring for the pastor’s body since his death, performing tasks such as cleaning, dressing, and even covering him with a mosquito net. “She told authorities that she was fulfilling the pastor’s instructions,” Msole added.
Chida, who had moved to the village in 2022 to establish a branch of the El-Huruma Church, was known for his reclusive nature and minimal interaction with neighbors. Reports indicate that he had been unwell since August 2024, following a trip to Mwanza. Despite advice from local leaders, including Msole, to seek medical help, Chida insisted that divine intervention would heal him.
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The pastor’s followers are deeply divided on the incident. Some expressed skepticism over the resurrection claim, while others maintained unwavering faith in his eventual return. “One follower, who preferred to remain anonymous, said they trusted the pastor’s word and viewed his ‘rest’ as part of God’s plan,” Msole noted.
Local authorities and the police have launched an inquiry into the matter, focusing on the circumstances of Chida’s death and the role of religious indoctrination in the aftermath. Medical experts are expected to conduct an autopsy to determine the exact cause and timing of death.
The case has sparked widespread debate over the intersection of faith and critical decision-making. Authorities have urged the public to balance religious beliefs with practical considerations, especially in matters of health and safety.
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