Atheists to sue AG over suspended registration

What you need to know:

  • Mr Mumia added that they had the backing of top lawyers who were ready to battle it out in court if the society is deregistered.
  • AIK have also challenged the church to try to convert them instead of criticising their registration as a society.
  • The society's statement came only a few hours after they held a party to celebrate their registration a month ago.
  • The party, themed “Without God”, sparked controversy after an invitation poster circulated on social media.

Atheists in Kenya have vowed to sue Attorney-General Githu Muigai if he bows to pressure from religious groups to formally suspend their registration.

The association’s president, Harrison Mumia, said his group had not been served with an official letter from the AG.

He, however, said that as soon as the decision is made official they will move to court.

“The suspension has not been made official. We are only getting this from media reports, but if he makes it official then he should prepare for a major legal battle,” said Mr Mumia.

Mr Mumia added that they had the backing of top lawyers who were ready to battle it out in court if the society is deregistered.

Mr Muigai is reported to have bowed to massive pressure from religious leaders and suspended the registration of the association.

The religious leaders on Friday called on the AG to resign for allowing the registration of the atheists’ society, arguing that it contradicts Kenyan morals.

SUPREME COURT

In a statement, the attorney-general said the legality of the society’s registration would be determined by the Supreme Court.

Atheists in Kenya (AIK) have also challenged the church to try to convert them instead of criticising their registration as a society.

“I believe their role should be trying to convince non-believers into believing, not criticising people for exercising their rights. Let them contact AIK and try and convert us,” said Mr Mumia.

The society's statement came only a few hours after the group held a party to celebrate their registration a month ago.

The party, themed “Without God”, sparked controversy after an invitation poster circulated on social media.

According to Mr Mumia, the party, held at a club on Kimathi Street in Nairobi, nevertheless turned out to be a huge success as Kenyans turned up to support the society.

“We drank and danced and surprisingly many Kenyans showed up to support us.

“It shows that more people understand and respect rights and the Constitution,” said the AIK president.

The party has apparently created more following for AIK, which currently has about 200 registered members with about 5,000 more seeking to register with the association.