Three people have been charged in Bondo Law Courts over an unregistered church in Ogago Village, Barkowino Sub-location, Bondo Sub-county, Siaya County. The case involves claims that three minors were hurt during a so-called exorcism ritual at the church.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) says Gaudencia Juma Otieno, who is known in the church as Church Mother, Stephen Omondi Otieno, known as Pastor, and Clinton Owour Obudho, also called Deacon Daudi, appeared before the court.
They are accused of running the church, which is registered as a society, without registration or any exemption. The alleged offence happened on October 4, 2026. Prosecution Counsel Edwin Nyakundi told the court that their actions broke Section 5, read together with Section 4(1), of the Societies Act, Cap. 108 of the Laws of Kenya.
Obudho is facing more serious charges. He is accused of grievous harm and assault causing actual bodily harm, after allegedly pouring hot water on children under the pretext of performing a deliverance ritual. According to the prosecution, two of the children have been admitted to hospital with severe burns. The charges of grievous harm and assault causing actual bodily harm fall under Sections 234 and 251 of the Penal Code.
All three accused denied the charges when they were read before Resident Magistrate Chepchirchir Christabel Maiyo. The court released them on bail. Otieno was given a bond of Sh100,000, with an option of paying Sh50,000 in cash. Omondi Otieno and Obudho were each given a bond of Sh300,000, but the court did not allow them to pay cash instead.
It is important to remember that these are allegations. The accused are presumed innocent until the court decides the matter. The case continues, and the court will hear the evidence from both sides before making a ruling.
For many families in Siaya and across the country, this case is a painful reminder of how some churches and self-styled prophets exploit vulnerable people, especially children. Parents are urged to check whether the religious groups their children attend are properly registered and to report any suspicious activity to the police.
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