Babu Owino: Church exists to speak truth, not obey govt

Embakasi East Member of Parliament, Babu Owino, has defended the Church, insisting it exists to speak truth and uphold moral values rather than obey or be controlled by the government.

In a statement shared on his X account,on Monday,November3,2025 Owino described the Church as a longstanding moral compass for Kenyans, guiding people during times of peace, struggle, and uncertainty.

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He stressed that the Church has historically stood with the people, providing a voice for the voiceless and a refuge for the weary.

“The Church does not exist at the pleasure of any government. It exists by divine calling, to speak the truth, even when that truth is uncomfortable,” Owino said.

He argued that while governments enact laws, protect citizens, and maintain order, the Church’s role is to nurture moral values and hold leaders accountable.

He criticised attempts to silence or intimidate religious leaders, warning that curtailing the Church’s voice undermines the freedoms that Kenyans enjoy.

“Whenever the state tries to silence the pulpit, it is not just the Church that is threatened, it is freedom itself,” Owino added.

Owino emphasised that respect for authority does not require silence or submission to injustice. He urged citizens to recognise the Church’s critical role in safeguarding the conscience of the nation and guiding ethical conduct.

This follows a wave of criticism from some politicians who have targeted the Church for speaking out on governance and national issues.

Owino noted that the Church has a duty to remind both leaders and citizens that “power without justice is tyranny, and authority without humility is dangerous.”

He called on Kenyans to support the Church as a vital institution capable of holding leaders accountable, highlighting its role as a guardian of morality and an essential voice in national discourse.