JUST IN: Rwanda Cracks Down: Hundreds of Churches Shut Down Overnight
Kigali, Rwanda - In a surprise move, the Rwandan government has banned several churches across the country, citing concerns over "unregulated" and "noisy" religious activities. According to a statement released by the Rwandan Ministry of Justice, a total of 714 churches have been closed, including some of the country's largest Pentecostal and evangelical churches. The government claims that many of these churches were operating without proper registration or adherence to building codes, and that some were even conducting loud services that disrupted neighboring communities. However, religious leaders and human rights groups have criticized the move, saying it is an attack on religious freedom and an attempt to silence dissenting voices. "This is a clear violation of the constitutional right to freedom of worship," said Bishop Samuel Mugisha, head of the Rwanda Episcopal Conference. "We urge the government to reconsider this decision and engage in ...