KAZAKHSTAN: Police Coerce Complaints Against Unregistered Churches

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

A previous raid at the Shu Baptist Church. Photo: Council of Churches Baptist via Forum 18

Police in Kazakhstan continue to pressure congregations belonging to the Council of Churches Baptist in an ongoing campaign to force them to register with the government. Recent reports indicate that the authorities have coerced individuals into filing complaints against these churches, even dictating what they should say.

On September 29th, police arrived at the Shu Baptist Church after receiving a complaint alleging that the church was conducting lessons for children – an activity restricted by law. The woman who filed the complaint later admitted that it had been written "under pressure and dictation from the police."

On October 26th, a church in Balpyk-Bi was raided by police officers mandating that the congregation be registered with the government. When the officers returned on November 19th, they demanded statements from all the attendees and, throughout the ordeal, forbid them from leaving. Those who refused to comply by giving a statement were then taken to the local police station. Charges were subsequently filed against nine members for holding a worship meeting without state permission. Thankfully, on December 24th, the judge dismissed all nine cases due to lack of evidence.

Under Kazakhstan's religious laws, registration requirements are strictly enforced. For some groups, such as the Council of Churches Baptist, these requirements bring back memories of the oppression Christians faced under the former Soviet Union. Under Kazakhstan's religious laws, registration requirements are strictly enforced. For some groups, such as the Council of Churches Baptist, these requirements bring back memories of the oppression Christians faced under the former Soviet Union.
More information on the persecution of believers in this Central Asian nation is available at our country report.

• Pray on behalf of the church leaders in Kazakhstan as they navigate how to wisely respond to the ongoing demands of governing officials and appropriately deal with the legal challenges presently facing them.
• May congregations throughout the country experience God's divine protection, empowerment and provision, enabling persecuted followers of Jesus to remain steadfast in their faith despite intimidation and coercion.
• Additionally, ask the Lord to bless His people's endeavours to faithfully share the Scriptures with those in need of eternal salvation, so that many hearts will be enlightened to the truth of His Word.