Baringo Woman Representative Florence Jematiah has retracted her contentious comments about Kenyan churches following widespread public outcry.
In a statement shared on her social media platforms on Wednesday, November 20, Jematiah apologised for her earlier remarks, acknowledging the feedback from Kenyans.
Baringo MP Florence Jematia speaks during a past event. Photo: The Star Source: Facebook
She admitted that the churches’ role in society should remain unchallenged and even included a suggestion for them to embrace oversight, as believers are citizens.
“I have gone through all the comments on my previous post about churches. I hereby withdraw my statement and apologise. I have to agree with you all that churches should be left to do their work,” Jematiah posted.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) legislator had sparked controversy a day earlier by accusing churches of disrespecting President William Ruto’s administration.
Baringo women rep Florence Jematia. Photo: Citizen TV Kenya Source: Facebook
In her Tuesday post, she called on churches to stop inciting divisions among denominations and urged them to respect the government’s authority.
The statement ignited a wave of criticism online, with some Kenyans accusing Jematiah of lacking the moral authority to lecture the church.
“You possess neither the ethical standing nor the moral probity to pontificate to the church on any matter,” noted lawyer Willis Otieno.
This incident comes against the backdrop of growing tensions between the Kenya Kwanza administration and the church.
Recently, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops criticised the government for over-taxation and human rights violations.
President Ruto and his allies have countered these allegations, cautioning against spreading misinformation.
Jematiah’s retraction reflects a broader struggle within Ruto’s administration to balance relations with religious institutions amid mounting criticism over governance issues.
