Suba North Member of Parliament Millie Odhiambo has issued a stern warning to religious leaders accused of inappropriate physical contact with women during prayers, calling for respect, professionalism, and ethical conduct in places of worship.
Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, Odhiambo urged pastors and spiritual leaders to refrain from touching women’s breasts and buttocks under the guise of prayer, insisting that such actions have no spiritual significance and violate personal boundaries.
“Stop touching women’s breasts and buttocks during prayers. There is nothing spiritual about that. Keep a distance. The spirit will work between you and the woman with the distance,” Odhiambo declared.
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The outspoken MP noted that physical contact among some clergy members has become a troubling trend that not only breeds discomfort but also risks triggering sexual arousal rather than fostering spiritual moments.
She maintained that prayer and spiritual manifestations do not require physical touching, urging churches to uphold decorum in religious practice.
According to Odhiambo, concentrating on ethical pastoral conduct is essential in preserving trust and dignity within places of worship.
Odhiambo also pointed to legal frameworks meant to protect women, referencing the Sexual Offences Act Amendment Bill, which criminalises inappropriate touching of women’s intimate areas.
“If that bill comes to the House and it’s made law, then I think pastors will not touch any breasts or buttocks of ladies, because that will not happen again,” she affirmed.
The lawmaker said her concerns stem from practices observed in certain churches, where pastors allegedly justify physical contact as part of spiritual intercession.
She warned that such behaviour undermines the integrity of the clergy and discourages women from seeking spiritual support.
“There is no need to put a physical touch between you and a woman,” she stated, adding that distance does not diminish the power of prayer.
Odhiambo called on faith leaders to lead by example, ensure safe worship spaces, and uphold the dignity of congregants.
She further urged the public and religious community to support legal and social measures aimed at fostering respectful spiritual environments.
By pairing legislation with public education, she said, Kenya can ensure that places of worship remain sanctuaries of respect, trust, and genuine spiritual nourishment for all.