Following public outcry over several mentally ill patients being held in shackles at a church in Kisumu County, the human rights group broke the silence.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) tasked the Attorney General to audit the church and its operation and take appropriate actions.
In a press statement dated Thursday, January 26, the commission asked AG Justin Muturi to also audit other religious institutions involved in 'faith healing'.
The commission noted that some institutions violate the rights of persons with mental illness but also exacerbate the belief that mental illness is a result of evil spirits and sin.
This, they noted, continued the discrimination and failure of the patients to seek medical attention.
"The commission condemns the gross violation and abuse of the human rights of alleged mentally ill members of the public detained, chained and put through despicable conditions with allegations of being prayed for to get healed," read the statement in parts.
KNCHR also detailed a similar case of a minor who was also held captive in 2018 at the same church in Kisumu which is not a registered mental facility.
After a fierce court battle, the church was directed to award the minor Ksh500,000 as compensation for general damages. However, the payment was yet to be made.
In addition, KNHCR called upon the Director of Public Prosecutions and the National Police Service to exercise their legal powers and ensure criminal investigations and prosecutions are taken against the church and the father in charge.
"We encourage members of the public who are willing to share any information regarding operations of the church or similar incidences to contact the commission," read part of the statement.
On Friday, January 20, Kisumu County sued the father for detaining the mentally ill patients in deplorable conditions.
