KMPDC condemns claims of 'faith-based healing' at Nakuru crusade

The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has raised alarm over claims of faith-based healing for serious medical conditions following reports linked to a religious crusade held in Nakuru.

In a statement issued by KMPDC Chief Executive Officer Dr. David Kariuki n Saturday, the regulator said it had taken note of “recent media reports and public discourse concerning claims of faith-based healing for serious medical conditions, including HIV/AIDS, cancer, blindness, deafness, muteness and physical disabilities.”

The council said the claims, which were attributed to certain medical practitioners, had triggered serious concerns around public health safety and professional ethics, warning that unverified statements by health professionals could endanger lives.

“The council unequivocally condemns such statements by medical practitioners, which are based on unverified claims,” said Dr. Kariuki.

KMPDC underscored that all medical practice in Kenya must adhere strictly to evidence-based medicine, stressing that treatments and interventions must be backed by scientific proof, testing and regulatory approval.

“Claims of healing for chronic or life-threatening conditions, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer, require verifiable medical documentation and cannot be accepted without independent verification by qualified healthcare professionals,” the council said.

The regulator warned that unsubstantiated claims, particularly when made by trained health professionals, could mislead vulnerable patients and discourage them from continuing proven medical therapies, potentially resulting in “worsened health outcomes, drug resistance, or loss of life.”

While acknowledging the role of faith and spirituality in society, KMPDC cautioned against substituting medical treatment with unverified practices.

“While faith and spiritual beliefs play an important role in many people's lives, relying solely on unverified healing methods for serious illnesses can pose grave risks,” noted Dr. Kariuki.

The council strongly advised members of the public not to abandon prescribed treatments for conditions such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes, hypertension, epilepsy and other chronic illnesses, noting that doing so contradicts established public health guidelines.

KMPDC also announced that investigations into the matter are ongoing in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other regulatory agencies.

“KMPDC is working closely with the Ministry of Health and other regulatory bodies to investigate these claims. Appropriate actions will be taken against any practitioner (or health professional) in order to safeguard public health, uphold medical ethics and protect citizens from misinformation,” the council said.

It added that potential legal measures would be pursued against any practices found to endanger lives or violate health regulations.

Reassuring the public, the council said Kenya’s healthcare system remains strong, citing continued investments in public health education, access to antiretroviral therapy, cancer care, treatment for chronic diseases and medical research.

It further urged Kenyans to report any suspicious medical claims to the relevant authorities for verification, reiterating its commitment to protecting public health and maintaining ethical medical practice.