The attack on a group of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Nyali, Mombasa county, over allegations of spiritism is more than an isolated incident. It is a reminder of how quickly fears, suspicion and misinformation can turn ordinary citizens into targets or culprits.
Spiritism is a belief system and philosophy that immortal souls survive bodily death and can communicate with the living. It combines science, philosophy, reincarnation and Christian morality with less emphasis on traditional rituals.
For many Kenyans, accusations of witchcraft, spiritism or supernatural powers remain emotionally charged. Throughout history, such claims have often spread faster than facts, sometimes with devastating consequences for innocent people.
What makes the Nyali incident particularly striking is that the allegations were directed at a religious group whose teachings explicitly reject spiritism.
Jehovah’s Witnesses are a Christian denomination best known for their public preaching work, Bible study programmes and door-to-door ministry. Present in more than 200 countries and territories, they have built their identity around what they consider strict adherence to Bible teachings.
Among those teachings is a firm rejection of spiritism, witchcraft, fortune telling, magic and attempts to communicate with the dead. Their literature consistently warns against occult practices and encourages reliance on God rather than supernatural powers.
This does not mean everyone agrees with their beliefs. Like many...
The attack on a group of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Nyali, Mombasa county, over allegations of spiritism is more than an isolated incident. It is a reminder of how quickly fears, suspicion and misinfo...