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Members of Ikhaya Labafundi bakaJehova Church in KwaMaphumulo in KwaZulu-Natal.
Congregants of the controversial Ikhaya Labafundi Faith Mission Church in KwaMaphumulo, north of Durban, say a possible closure of the church will not deter them from continuing their religious practices.
The Chairperson of the CRL Rights Commission, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva, is conducting an oversight visit at the church following reports of possible human rights violations.
It is alleged that members are discouraged from taking chronic medication, seeking medical care or pursuing formal education, as these are seen to conflict with the church’s beliefs.
Some congregants, who come from different parts of the country, have reportedly moved onto the property permanently, leaving behind their families and careers.
One of the congregants says, “We are joyful because the Kingdom of God should be preached to the entire nation, we see it as an opportunity for God’s salvation to go to people. We are aware that God is in control. So, whatever happens, it will God who allowed it to happen.”
Another congregant added, “If they happen to close the Ikhaya Labafundi, we are not bothered we will stick to our decision as God has been revealed to us clearly and wherever they take us to, we will still continue to follow the God’s commands and we will not turn our eyes.”
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