Public debate has grown across Kenya after Kamukunji MP aspirant Alinur Mohamed called for strict control of church activities following a controversial television investigation.
Mohamed shared his views on X after watching a TV47 report that examined the work of self proclaimed prophet David Owuor.
He said the country is largely Christian and leaders must now consider clear rules to guide religious institutions and protect citizens from possible abuse.
Although Mohamed said he rarely comments on religious matters, he explained that the issues raised in the broadcast could not be ignored.
He urged government agencies and faith leaders to have honest discussions on how to protect worshippers while respecting freedom of religion. His statement quickly spread online and attracted both support and criticism from different groups.
The TV47 investigation titled Divine or Deceptive aired on February 8 and looked closely at claims made by Owuor about miraculous healing.
The program reviewed stories from people who believed they were cured of HIV or physical disabilities during church services. Journalists later checked medical documents linked to some of these claims in Laikipia County and found several records were fake or did not match hospital data.
One example involved a man who said he was healed from HIV. Reporters confirmed that the patient number used in his documents actually belonged to another person.
The investigation also alleged that Owuor sent KSh 20000 to each journalist after an interview and described it as a love offering. The team returned the money together with transaction costs.
Further claims suggested the preacher showed reporters WhatsApp screenshots that he said were messages from God and warned them about spiritual consequences.
Supporters of the ministry defended his work while critics argued that vulnerable believers could be misled.
Social media reactions were divided with some Kenyans supporting regulation of all religious groups including mosques while others warned against government control of faith.
Analysts believe the controversy has opened a wider conversation about transparency accountability and ethical conduct within religious institutions as pressure grows for official response.
Many observers say the discussion is likely to continue in the coming weeks as more citizens share personal experiences with different ministries.
Some legal experts argue that any new laws must balance public safety with constitutional rights to worship freely.
Others suggest stronger public education so followers can question suspicious claims and make informed spiritual and financial decisions before offering trust or support.
