In a bid to regulate the proliferation of churches in Cameroon, Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji has warned that churches operating illegally will face tough consequences. This warning comes on the heels of a rapid increase in the number of Pentecostal churches springing up across the country.
During a press conference on December 10, 2024 in Yaoundé, Minister Atanga Nji said, “The undeclared churches that spring up at every street corner are urged to get their affairs in order.” He further added, “In Cameroon, only the head of State can authorize any church to go operational. So for those who are operating without the decree from the Head of State, I am advising them to close down before I get to them”, he said.
The growth of these churches has been staggering, with new ones emerging daily. While some residents in Yaoundé have welcomed the government’s move to regulate these churches, others have expressed concerns about the motivations behind the crackdown.
At the heart of the issue is the fact that fewer than 50 churches in Cameroon have received authorisation from the Presidency to operate, despite the country having several hundreds of churches. This has led to concerns that some individuals are using churches to engage in unethical practices.
Minister Atanga Nji’s warning is not the first time the government has taken action against churches. In 2013, the Presidency ordered the closure of nearly 100 Pentecostal churches in major cities, citing security threats posed by criminal activities associated with some Pentecostal pastors. However, many Pentecostal leaders argued that this crackdown reflected President Biya’s insecurity regarding the churches’ criticisms of the government.
As the government prepares to take action against illegal churches, many are watching to see how this will play out. Will the government’s efforts to regulate these churches lead to greater accountability and transparency, or will it be seen as an attempt to suppress freedom of worship? Only time will tell.
Proliferation of Protestant Churches in Cameroon
In recent years, Cameroon has seen a significant increase in the number of Protestant churches, particularly Pentecostal churches. This growth has been driven in part by the country’s economic and social challenges, which have led many to seek solace in religion.
However, the rapid proliferation of these churches has also raised concerns about their impact on the population. Some have argued that these churches are exploiting vulnerable individuals, particularly in rural areas, and using them for financial gain.
Others have raised concerns about the lack of regulation and oversight of these churches, which has led to instances of abuse and exploitation. The government’s efforts to regulate these churches are seen by many as a necessary step to ensure accountability and transparency.
