National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on the Church to maintain objectivity in its engagement with political affairs, expressing concern over what he termed as open partiality by some religious leaders.
He made the remarks this morning at a farewell meeting with the outgoing Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, Archbishop Hubertus Matheus Maria van Megen, as the diplomat concluded his seven-year service in the country.
Hon. Wetang’ula emphasized that while the Church plays a critical role as society’s moral voice, it must avoid becoming politically partisan.
“Nobody will gag the church from being critical, but you must be fair. You can comment as much on social issues as you like, but when you start behaving like an alternative political force, you lose the moral high ground as an impartial commentator, advisor, and arbitrary counselor,” he said.
He further reflected on the Church’s historical role during periods of political repression, citing past Church leaders known for their strong moral authority.
“The church needs to speak on social issues, peace, justice, and accountability. I tell my Bishops that you can speak on transparency and responsibility; however, even as you criticize others, look within yourself.”
The Speaker also questioned what he called the inconsistent criticism of successive governments by religious leaders.
“The Catholic Church was completely silent on Uhuru Kenyatta. President William Ruto is literally breaking his back, moving all over the country to move it forward, but the church doesn’t see anything good in him. In fact, it has exhibited open hostility. It is not right for the Bishop to be openly known to have a position,” stated the Speaker.
At the same time, Wetang’ula expressed concern over what he described as the gradual erosion of the social mission of some Catholic-run schools and health institutions, saying they were drifting away from their sacred calling.
“They need to up their game, it is not about monetary gain, it is more about addressing social inefficiencies” the Archbishop Megen stressed.
During the meeting, the Speaker also paid tribute to Archbishop van Megen for his seven years of service in Kenya, noting his contribution to strengthening the Church through the appointment of bishops.
“The average age of the Bishops was a little concerning; we have had 26 new Bishops, this has opened the conference and brought in energy,” the Apostolic Nuncio affirmed.
The outgoing Nuncio is set to take up a new assignment in Germany.
Wetang’ula wished him well, encouraging him to continue promoting peace, reconciliation, justice, and human dignity in his future mission.