The Holy Family Basilica has issued a statement clarifying its decision to deny entry to protestors seeking refuge from the police during the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations in Nairobi.
This is obviously not the first time Churches from different parts of the world turned aways civilians is search of Sanctuary.
For Instance, Bishop Augustin Misago was accused that on April 15, 1994 at the Nyarubuye Roman Catholic Church in Kibungo Province, 140 km (87 mi) east of the Rwandan capital Kigali, he handed over dozens of children to death squads and turning away thousands of Tutsis who sought sanctuary within the church, knowing they would be murdered.
However, the bishop, who denied the charges, said he was being persecuted by a Tutsi-dominated government out to victimize prominent Hutus.
Nevertheless, the Holy Family Basilica has issued a statement clarifying its decision to deny entry to protestors seeking refuge from the police during the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations in Nairobi.
The Basilica found itself at the centre of a storm of criticism on social media following the incident, with Kenyans highlighting that while the church denied entry to protestors, Jamia Mosque provided them with shelter, food, and water during the protests.
The incident subsequently sparked a debate about the role of religious institutions in times of social unrest.
In a statement signed by Metropolitan Archbishop of Nairobi Rev. Philip Anyalo, the Basilica explained that its primary concern was the safety and welfare of its students attending the Holy Family Minor Basilica Catholic Parochial School located within its compound.
“The compound hosts a school, and our personnel consistently maintain the safety of the young children. The Church is also responsible for ensuring a duty of care for the young ones In the Holy Family Minor Basilica Catholic Parochial School,” said Anyalo.
The Reverend, while empathizing with Kenyans affected during the incident, likewise reiterated that the church is committed to opening its doors to all people of God and Kenyans in general as part of its mandate.
“We acknowledge the statements that have been made on social media and deeply empathise with those affected by the situation. We wish to affirm that the Holy Family Minor Basilica will always endeavour to be a sanctuary for all people of God, remaining open to the public,” he said.
“We regret any misunderstanding following the current concerns about Finance Bill 2024 and will continue to strive to be a sanctuary of worship.”
The Basilica further expressed solidarity with all individuals advocating for a better future for Kenyans.
