A heated debate has emerged in Jamaica as the Unuchi Foundation, a non-profit advocating for Africana spirituality, campaigns to repeal the Obeah Act of 1898. This move has sparked strong opposition from Christian groups, who fear that legalizing the folk practice could unleash demonic forces and exacerbate societal issues. On Wednesday, representatives from various church groups gathered in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, to pray against the potential decriminalization of Obeah. They urged Jamaicans to recognize the dangers of the practice and resist efforts to legitimize it. Bishop Dr. Alvin Bailey, president of the Jamaica Evangelical Alliance, emphasized that while Obeah is currently illegal, it remains prevalent and destructive. He warned that legalizing it would be a disastrous decision, enabling deviant behaviors and spiritual wickedness. The Unuchi Foundation, however, argues that Obeah is an integral part of African heritage and seeks to empower and heal people through its practice. The foundation organized a candlelight vigil and a virtual event to mark the first constitutional hearing on decriminalizing Obeah. Christian leaders, including Bishop Rowan Edwards and Pastor Dalbert Simmonds, have vowed to oppose any such legalization, citing the negative impact of similar practices like Voodoo in Haiti. The Church’s stance reflects deep concerns about the societal and spiritual consequences of legitimizing Obeah, which they believe could further destabilize the nation.