Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has launched a fresh attack on President William Ruto and sections of the church, accusing religious leaders of helping propel the current administration to power and now remaining silent as the media faces growing intimidation.

Speaking during a public address on Sunday, June 28, 2026, Natembeya said church leaders must also take responsibility for what he described as Kenya’s current political situation, arguing that many religious leaders heavily endorsed Ruto during the 2022 campaigns while presenting him as a divinely chosen leader.

The outspoken governor claimed pastors were quick to embrace Ruto whenever he quoted scripture during campaign rallies, but now Kenyans were witnessing a different reality.

“Mimi naomba,na ninaomba pia Kanisa wanafaa kuomba kabisaa. Ni wao walituletea Kasongo mwenye alikuwa anasoma Bible na kulia kuliko bishops, mko na majukumu nyinyi,wachungaji pia lazima watubu maana ni binadamu,you have to honour kwamba mlifanya makosa.Its only God who don’t do mistake,” Natembeya said.

Church leaders told to reflect

Natembeya argued that some religious leaders used their authority to convince Kenyans that Ruto’s presidency had divine approval, warning that faith leaders must now reflect on the influence they wield when guiding the public on matters of leadership.

According to him, churches played a significant role in shaping political choices by repeatedly telling Kenyans that leaders are chosen by God.

“Mnatuambia viongozi wanaletwa na Mungu na Ruto aliletwa na Mungu. Wachungaji pia lazima watubu maana ni binadamu na wanaweza kufanya makosa,” he stated.

He added that religious leaders must use their platforms responsibly, insisting that every sector in the country, including the clergy, must remain accountable.

“Naamini kiongozi wa dini akiongea naamini kuwa ni mwenyezi Mungu anaongea, so use that authority vizuri ili guidance mnapeana iwe ya ukweli.So every sector must be in this republic lazima iwajibike,” Natembeya added.

Tension over media freedom grows

His remarks come days after tensions escalated between President Ruto and Standard Media Group after the Head of State accused the media house of running what he termed persistent propaganda attacks against his administration.

The dispute intensified after The Standard responded with a satirical online post declaring it would now print “eight days a week” following Ruto’s criticism.

The latest standoff has triggered wider debate over press freedom, with critics warning that attacks on media houses risk undermining constitutional freedoms and democratic accountability in the country.

Natembeya maintained that leadership across all sectors must remain accountable if Kenya hopes to achieve genuine change.