The Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) has revoked the legal personality of Zeraphat Holy Church, citing non-compliance with legal requirements. In a statement released on October 18, RGB stated, “This church was found to be jeopardizing the peace and security of Rwandans, public order, health, good morals, good conduct, freedom, and the fundamental rights of others.” According to RGB’s letter addressed to Jean Bosco Harerimana, the church’s representative, an audit revealed that the church management did not adhere to legal provisions. The letter further ordered the church to cease all activities immediately. ALSO READ: Zeraphat Holy Church pastor, wife arrested over fraud, blackmail “To manage the church’s property, which has now lost its legal status as prescribed by law, you are required to provide a complete inventory of the church’s assets, including land, buildings, equipment, financial assets, and any other properties in the name of the church,” the letter read. The church was given 15 days to submit this inventory. Additionally, the letter stressed that any decisions regarding the management of church property must comply with applicable laws. The church’s leadership is prohibited from selling or transferring assets without proper authorization, with non-compliance being subject to legal penalties. ALSO READ: Zeraphat Holy Church pastor, wife fraud case goes to prosecution The church’s legal personality was revoked following the arrest of Jean Bosco Harerimana and his wife on October 9. The couple faces charges of fraud, blackmail, and disseminating pornographic material through digital platforms. The case was handed over to the National Public Prosecution Authority (NPPA). NPPA spokesperson Faustin Nkusi confirmed that the case is currently under review. “After this process, we will decide whether to proceed with a pretrial hearing or take any other actions as stipulated by law,” Nkusi stated.
