An old picture of Gauteng premier David Makhura taken with Alleluia Ministries church leader and a pastor, Alph Lukau has been doing rounds on social media. It is believed that the premier was invited by the church for their 16th anniversary last year.
Makhura said that he was invited as a public representative to be with the congregants.
“My presence was to share the sermon with them. At the time, I had no reason to question the authenticity of the church. There are certain revelations that have emerged and come to the attention of the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CLR) who are currently investigating Pastor Lukau regarding the resurrection incident,” said Makhura.
The government has established institutions such as the CLR to deal with denominations that are found to be involved in illegal and unholy religious practices.
Premier Makhura has a great deal of respect for the faith-based sector. He has been invited to and has visited many churches across Gauteng.
In the past, Premier Makhura has spoken strongly against some religious leaders who feed on the vulnerability of the children of God who face many difficulties in their daily lives.
“We have seen an increase in people drinking petrol, eating rats or snakes whilst others rape congregants or confess to practicing witchcraft. Together let us find lasting solutions to these scourges,” said Premier Makhura.
In addition, the premier reiterated that churches must self-regulate to counter harmful religious practices.
Premier Makhura will continue to interact with religious leaders and visit churches, mosques, and temples. He has also publicly called out religious leaders who are involved in questionable, illegal or harmful practices.
