A church leader has supported the proposal by Chief Justice Willy Mutunga to vet bishops and pastors. Seventh Day Adventist East African Union President Paul Muasya said some people cannot be entrusted with preaching the word of God.

"The SDA church supports the proposal because we believe it will ensure only those called to proclaim the word of the Lord do so and not people who want to turn the church to a business venture," he said.

Last week, Mutunga suggested that the judiciary vet bishops and pastors to ensure that they pass the integrity test. According to Muasya, church leaders must be vetted for accountability purposes.

"Some clergy have run their churches as a one-man show and cannot effectively account for church funds," he said. "It is imperative for the vetting process of the clergy to be embraced to restore the confidence of the congregation."

Muasya was speaking at the official opening of the Sh60 million Gunda SDA church at Mbita in Homa Bay county on Saturday. "Majority of them have today turned the house of the Lord into business premises and the flock gone astray due to their questionable integrities," he said.

Muasya also warned the church against taking sides in politics. He said the church needs to remain neutral as the country gears up for the March 4 general election.

"This will give Kenyans an opportunity to elect leaders of their choice," said the SDA President. He said the church is entrusted with spiritual leadership and guidance so the clergy must not deviate from this course.