The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) has banned all political rhetoric in its churches and functions across the country, citing growing divisiveness among leaders.
Speaking at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Jogoo Road, on Sunday after the consecration of Bishop Jonathan Kabiru Kariuki, ACK Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit said politicians have turned church gatherings into platforms for hate speech instead of focusing on serving Kenyans.
“Political campaigns never stop, from one election to the other. Most of the political heat we see with new alliances of late has to do with sowing divisiveness, not unity. As a church, we will not provide a platform for such rhetoric,” Sapit said.
The Archbishop urged leaders to shift their focus to service delivery, citing failing government programs such as the Social Health Authority (SHA) and education sector financing as critical areas that need attention. He also discouraged politicians from publicly announcing their church donations, a move seen as a response to growing concerns over financial contributions from political leaders, including President William Ruto.
A host of political figures attended the event but did not get a chance to make political addresses. Among them were Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and DAP-Kenya Party leader Eugene Wamalwa.
Bishop Canon Jonathan Kabiru Kariuki was officially consecrated and enthroned as the third bishop of Nairobi.
ACK’s decision marks a significant step in separating politics from religious gatherings as the country heads toward the 2027 general election.
