Authorities in Sydney, Australia, have ordered the immediate closure of an Islamic prayer hall linked to a controversial preacher, citing a straightforward violation of city planning laws.

The move spotlights the universal challenge of regulating religious spaces—a sensitive issue that resonates deeply in Kenya, where tragedies like the Shakahola massacre have ignited fierce debate on oversight and accountability for spiritual leaders.

The City of Canterbury Bankstown council issued a "cease use" directive on the Al Madina Dawah Centre, associated with cleric Wisam Haddad. A council spokesperson noted that a review of records confirmed the building was never approved to operate as a prayer hall and was most recently permitted to be a medical centre. "Our recent surveillance indicates there is a strong suspicion the premises is being used contrary to its intended use," the council stated, emphasizing that the order was effective immediately.

A Familiar Echo for Kenya

The Sydney centre and its preacher, Wisam Haddad, had been under increased scrutiny following a deadly terrorist attack at Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, which killed 15 people. One of the gunmen was found to have worshipped at the Al Madina centre. Haddad, who has been accused of delivering antisemitic sermons, denies any connection to the attack.

While the closure in Sydney was executed on zoning violations, the underlying security concerns mirror the impetus behind Kenya's own regulatory push. Following the horrific discovery of over 429 bodies in Shakahola forest in 2023, linked to cult leader Paul Mackenzie, the Kenyan government has been actively seeking to rein in extremist religious organizations.

This has led to the drafting of the Religious Organisations Bill, 2024, which aims to:

• Establish a clear framework to combat religious extremism.
• Prevent the abuse of freedom of worship.
• Strengthen governance and accountability within the religious sector.

A Contentious Path Forward

The proposed Kenyan law has faced significant opposition from some religious leaders who fear it could infringe on constitutional freedoms and lead to state control over the church. Critics argue the bill imposes stringent registration requirements and that existing laws are sufficient to prosecute criminal activity within religious circles.

The government, however, maintains that regulation is necessary to prevent another Shakahola. Public participation forums on the draft bill were held across the country in mid-December 2025 to gather views from citizens and stakeholders.

As Kenyan lawmakers navigate this complex balance between religious freedom and public safety, the decisive, non-religious grounds for action in Sydney may offer a different lens through which to view a deeply familiar challenge.