Wetang’ula accuses Church of unfairly criticizing President Ruto

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the Church to remain objective in political matters warning against what he described as growing political partisanship among some religious leaders.

Speaking during a farewell meeting with the outgoing Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, Archbishop Hubertus Matheus Maria van Megen, at Parliament Buildings on Tuesday, the Speaker said the Church must safeguard its moral authority by remaining fair and impartial in its criticism of leaders and governments.

“Nobody will gag the Church from being critical, but it must be fair. The Church can speak on social issues as much as it wants, but when it begins behaving like an alternative political force, it risks losing the moral high ground as an impartial adviser and moral authority,” said Wetang’ula.

The Speaker acknowledged the historic role played by the Church during periods of political repression, saying religious leaders have always been important voices on justice, peace and accountability.

“The Church needs to continue speaking on social issues, peace, justice and accountability. But even as leaders criticise others, they should also reflect internally,” he added.

Speaker Wetang’ula also questioned what he termed as selective criticism by some religious leaders against the current administration.

“The Catholic Church was largely silent during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure. President William Ruto is working tirelessly across the country to drive development, yet the Church hardly acknowledges any positive efforts. Instead, there appears to be open hostility,” he said.

At the same meeting, Archbishop van Megen expressed concern over what he described as the gradual shift by some Catholic-sponsored schools and hospitals from their social mission towards commercial interests.

He urged Church institutions to refocus on serving communities and addressing social challenges rather than prioritising financial gain.

During the farewell ceremony, Mr. Wetang’ula praised Archbishop van Megen for his seven years of service in Kenya, noting that his tenure had helped rejuvenate the Catholic Church leadership through the appointment of younger bishops.

“The appointment of 26 new bishops has brought fresh energy and renewed leadership within the Church,” the outgoing Apostolic Nuncio said.

Archbishop van Megen is set to take up a new diplomatic assignment in Germany after completing his tour of duty in Kenya.

Wetang’ula wished him well in his new role and commended him for promoting peace, reconciliation, justice and human dignity during his time in the country.