Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party, has revealed that she no longer believes in God, identifying instead as agnostic and a “cultural Christian.”
Speaking on a podcast hosted by Bari Weiss, editor of The Free Press, Badenoch discussed her journey away from religious belief while emphasizing the importance of moral actions over faith.
“I don’t believe in God anymore,” Badenoch admitted during the interview. “But I am not an atheist; I am agnostic. I used to believe in God very much, but now I describe myself as a cultural Christian. I don’t think it matters if people believe in God or not. What matters is what they do with the belief or the lack of it.”
Her remarks have sparked widespread conversation, with supporters applauding her candor while some critics expressed disappointment in her shift from faith. The revelation also adds to Badenoch’s complex public image as a politician unafraid to voice personal and, at times, polarizing opinions.
In the same interview, Badenoch reflected on her contrasting experiences with law enforcement in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. She shared that her interactions with Nigerian police were overwhelmingly negative, citing incidents of alleged corruption and theft.
“I do [trust the UK police],” she said, drawing a comparison. “My experience with the police in Nigeria was very negative. Coming to the UK, my experience with the British police was very positive.”
Badenoch recounted personal encounters, including one where Nigerian police allegedly stole her brother’s shoe and watch. These experiences, she noted, helped shape her perspective on governance and justice.
The interview has further highlighted Badenoch’s distinctive approach to public discourse, offering insights into her personal beliefs and their influence on her political outlook.
By Saifullahi Muhammad
