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Ezekiel Mutua sends message to people mocking Lucy Natasha for closing her physical church
14th January, 2026 03:06 PM
Former Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) CEO, Ezekiel Mutua, has come out in support of Empowerment Christian Church (ECC) leader Reverend Lucy Natasha following widespread criticism over her decision to close her physical church and move services online.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Mutua highlighted that the move, which has sparked mixed reactions on social media, reflects prudent and strategic leadership rather than weakness.
“I’ve seen some people mocking Rev. Lucy Natasha’s decision to shift her church from its physical location at Biashara Plaza to an online platform amid alleged financial struggles, viewing it as a sign of weakness,” Mutua wrote.
The former KFCB chief urged critics to consider the operational realities of running a church, which he compared to any other legal business entity facing economic pressures.
He explained that churches, like private businesses, carry obligations including rent, staff salaries, and general operations, all of which have been strained by current economic conditions.
“In reality, this bold move exemplifies prudent leadership. Treat the church as any legal business entity with obligations like rent, staff salaries, and operations, and you’ll see it’s not immune to the harsh economic times hitting other organisations,” Mutua shared.
He pointed out that paying rent in Nairobi, unless the land is owned outright, is especially challenging for church leaders.
He said many ministers have had to either pivot their operations online or shut down entirely, citing Reverend Natasha’s decision as a timely and practical response to the situation.
“From my experience working with numerous church ministers, paying rent in the city—unless you own the land outright—is incredibly tough, alongside other responsibilities. Many church leaders have made similar pivots; some have shuttered their doors entirely,” Mutua wrote.
Maintenance costs
Mutua further noted that even churches with large properties are not immune to rising maintenance costs, which could force them to explore alternative and more sustainable ways of operating.
He said leaders must reflect seriously on diversifying income streams and adjusting operational models to withstand economic hardships.
“Soon, even those with big church buildings on their own property will grapple with maintenance costs and may pivot to alternative ventures for sustainability. This demands serious reflection from church leaders on enduring these tough times,” he wrote.
The former KFCB CEO emphasised that criticism of Rev. Lucy Natasha was misplaced, noting that the indefinite closure of her Biashara Plaza rooftop services is a reflection of her foresight and responsibility as a leader.
He added that moving services online allows the church to remain active and continue ministering to congregants without overextending resources.
“Without recalibrating business and operational models to diversify income streams, most churches risk closure. This challenge is not restricted to churches only. It affects different institutions, including media houses, law firms, and beyond. Rev. Lucy’s decision isn’t weakness—it’s inspiration and an eye-opener,” Mutua wrote.
Mutua also drew parallels to other sectors, saying that the economic challenges affecting churches are not unique, but impact institutions ranging from media houses to law firms.
He argued that Rev. Lucy’s actions should serve as an example of resilience and pragmatic leadership.
“It’s a bold decision that’s not sugarcoating the challenges, but is real and pragmatic. Other institutions should follow suit, embracing affordable spaces or online operations without shame,” he shared.
The decorated preacher who is married to long-time lover Prophet Carmel first announced the closure in a statement shared with members of Empowerment Nation on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
“Due to venue challenges, starting this Sunday, the 11th, we shall not be gathering at Biashara Plaza Rooftop,” she announced.
Author
Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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