This archive report was first published on 15 November 2019.
Reverend James Maina Ng'ang'a, a prominent pastor in Kenya, has sparked controversy with his recent declaration that abortion is not a sin. In a statement made on November 15, 2019, the pastor argued that there are situations where pregnancy is uncalled-for and should not be tolerated.
According to the pastor, women should have the right to decide whether to preserve a pregnancy or terminate it, citing cases where a woman may be uncertain about the father's willingness to take responsibility, or where the pregnancy poses a risk to the woman's health.
Ng'ang'a also emphasized the need for churches to be understanding and supportive of women who have undergone abortions, rather than condemning them as sinners.
His sentiments have been echoed by lobby groups, which argue that abortion should be nationally certified as a birth control measure, given the country's rapidly increasing population.
Ng'ang'a's declaration has received both applause and scorn from various media platforms, with some hailing him as a champion of women's rights and others condemning him as a heretic.
“Mwanamke ndio ako na uamuzi,” he said, translating to the woman having the right to decide for herself regarding the pregnancy.
“Mimi nimeamua hiyo siyo dhambi,” he added, stating that he had soul-searched and prayed over the matter.
