The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) has issued a statement calling for an end to political rallies by both government and opposition leaders.
Saying the rallies were breeding grounds for incitement, the statement signed by Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit on behalf of the conclave of Bishops also urged leaders to be mindful of their language on social media.
The statement called for an immediate end to ongoing protests, arguing that they have been “hijacked by criminals to ignite violence and cause destruction”.
The bishops acknowledged that peaceful protests are a constitutional right but said the resulting violence has led to unnecessary loss of life and property.
“Public barazas by politicians are causing more harm than good, and we strongly urge that such barazas by whatever political divide should cease forthwith,” Ole Sapit stated.
The bishops condemned President William Ruto’s remarks instructing police to shoot looters in the legs—remarks that were echoed by Belgut MP Nelson Koech, who encouraged police to shoot and kill violent protesters.
The clergy also opposed the construction of a church within the State House, insisting that the presidency is a symbol of national unity and no faith should feel left out.
“We condemn the shoot-to-kill order as well as shoot-to-maim or break legs. Let the police execute their mandate within the provisions of the law,” Sapit noted.
“We urge the President to shelve the idea of the construction of a church at the State House. The presidency is a symbol of national unity, and it is important that no faith may seem left out.”
They urged for alternative and peaceful ways to express grievances and find lasting solutions to the country’s challenges.
They condoled with families that have lost their loved ones and expressed regret for those who have lost their livelihoods or sustained injuries.
They demand thorough and fair investigations and prosecution of all who are guilty of extra-judicial killings, asking the government to take responsibility for the loss of life and compensate affected families.
“We condemn recent events of lawlessness, which have seen loss of lives, destruction of properties, and closure of businesses,” added the statement.
“We stand with those who have lost loved ones and convey our sincere condolences. We also stand with those who have lost livelihoods and the injured.”
The clergy added: “We demand that the government protect lives and properties and conduct thorough and fair investigations and charge all who are guilty of extra-judicial killings and looting.”
Their statement was reiterated by Bishop Alfred Rotich of the Catholic Diocese of Kericho.
He said, “If we all rush to the stage at once, we end up in chaos. I think at this point we need to counsel the government that yes, we have made a mistake—but it can be corrected.”
Religious leaders are urging the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to take firm action against anyone inciting violence, whether in government or opposition.
The Anglican Church further called on newly appointed IEBC commissioners to uphold truth and justice as they take office and prepare to oversee the 2027 General Election.
Source: RMS
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