Lewisham Councillor Exonerated in Controversial Church Affiliation Probe
Labour councillor Kim Powell has been formally cleared of any wrongdoing following an extensive investigation into allegations that she improperly used her political position to promote the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG). The investigation centered on whether Powell breached Lewisham Council's Code of Conduct when she suggested the controversial church's inclusion in a September 2024 interfaith walk.
Investigation Findings and Committee Decision
Investigators concluded that Councillor Powell made the request for UCKG's participation in her capacity as Community Outreach Manager at the church's Catford branch, rather than utilizing her council position. The Standards Sub-Committee of Lewisham Council formally upheld these findings during their February 25 meeting, determining no breach of conduct had occurred.
The investigative team emphasized that Powell's involvement with the interfaith walk was strictly professional rather than political. They noted that while councillors must exercise caution when council business intersects with their professional roles, Powell had not exploited her elected position to influence the decision regarding UCKG's participation.
Background of the Controversial Church
The Universal Church of the Kingdom of God has faced significant criticism and multiple allegations from former members. Accusations include financial exploitation, emotional and spiritual abuse, and practices targeting LGBTQ+ individuals. A December 2023 BBC Panorama investigation reported concerning statements from church leadership regarding medical conditions.
Former members have alleged the church describes epilepsy as a "spiritual problem" and claims to address mental health conditions "by casting out evil spirits." The church has publicly denied engaging in conversion therapy practices.
Complaint and Response
The investigation was triggered by a May 2025 complaint from Rachael Reign, founder of Surviving Universal UK and a former UCKG member. Reign argued that Powell's actions caused "significant distress" to abuse survivors connected to the church and highlighted multiple media investigations documenting alleged harmful practices.
Reign also raised concerns about Mayor Brenda Dacres' handling of the matter, alleging a "close friendship" between Dacres and Powell influenced the response. Investigators found no evidence supporting these claims about the mayor's conduct or relationship with Powell.
Committee Deliberations and Outcome
During the February meeting, Green councillor Hau-Yu Tam expressed disappointment on behalf of Reign regarding the investigative process, particularly the decision not to interview suggested witnesses including the Bishop of Woolwich. Tam argued this represented an oversight in the investigation.
After private deliberations, the committee unanimously concluded that neither Powell nor Mayor Dacres had breached the Code of Conduct. They determined Powell was not acting in her councillor capacity regarding the interfaith walk suggestion and found no conflict of interest involving Mayor Dacres.
Official Statements and Aftermath
In an official statement, Councillor Powell described the investigation as "a deeply challenging period for me personally" and expressed relief at its conclusion. She reaffirmed her commitment to serving the community with "integrity, transparency and dedication."
Mayor Brenda Dacres declined to comment on the matter. Investigators acknowledged the courage required to raise concerns about individuals in positions of power while emphasizing that matters of personal association with organizations should ultimately be decided through democratic processes rather than regulatory intervention.
Powell had served as Cabinet Member for Business until February 2025, when she left the role with immediate effect prior to the investigation's completion. The Standards Sub-Committee's decision represents the final resolution of this matter within the council's regulatory framework.
