"The problem we have is that religion has got so many problems," Marie Louise Uwimana, a lawyer and activist, told DW. "But I think offertory and tithe should not be taxed, adding that such money goes into doing the Lord's work like paying church workers and giving allowances to pastors."
According to Rwanda's 2022 census, more than 90% of the country's population identify as Christian. However, the mushrooming of Pentecostal churches, which many critics accuse of targeting the poor by preaching the 'prosperity gospel,' led to Kagame's crackdown.
RBG has shut down nearly 8,000 churches and mosques following an evaluation process. RBG said many churches failed to meet infrastructural standards, such as safety protocols, while some allegedly operated illegally.
Rather than tax churches, the government should put up regulations and laws that can streamline this sector to avoid some church leaders extorting unsuspecting and innocent churchgoers."
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