As political temperatures rise across Kenya just two years before the 2027 general election, the church has sounded an alarm over the increasing hostility and divisive rhetoric dominating the national conversation.
Nyeri Archbishop Anthony Muheria has warned that the country is treading a dangerous path that could plunge it into chaos if political leaders fail to embrace humility, unity, and service to the people.
Speaking during celebrations marking the 10th anniversary of the beatification of Sister Irene Stefani Nyaatha at Mukurwe-ini in Nyeri County, Archbishop Muheria called on Kenya’s political elite to “tone down the politics” and prioritize the well-being of ordinary citizens over political rivalry.
“The kind of exchanges that sometimes we hear among leaders full of anger, pride, and selfishness are not godly,” the Archbishop said. “Leadership must be filled with love, mercy, and humility. When a leadership is filled with God, filled with Christ, it becomes true leadership.”
Church Raises Alarm Over Escalating Rhetoric
The Archbishop’s message comes at a delicate moment for the nation, just days after the country concluded a week of mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, a towering figure in Kenya’s political history. The mourning period had briefly cooled political activity, but the tone of political exchanges has since intensified, with public rallies and counter-statements resurfacing across different counties.
In Nyeri, Muheria’s comments appeared to reference recent controversial remarks by Governor Mutahi Kahiga, which sparked heated debate within political circles. The Archbishop cautioned that such utterances risk fanning ethnic divisions and weakening the social fabric that has held the country together.
“We must bring God back into leadership,” he emphasized. “When leaders act without mercy, when they refuse to listen or to humble themselves before the people, that is not leadership it is tyranny in disguise.”
Muheria further urged leaders to refrain from using their platforms to insult opponents, adding that true statesmanship lies in building bridges, not burning them.
“We are filled with big heads of how important we are,” he lamented. “Many leaders today are too proud to come down from their high seats of power to serve the people. But leadership without love, without compassion, without humility is no leadership at all.”
Clergy Across Counties Join in the Appeal for Calm
Similar sentiments echoed across other counties as clergy from different denominations voiced concern about the growing animosity among Kenya’s political class.
In Kirinyaga County, during a church leaders’ meeting in Kerugoya, religious leaders condemned inflammatory remarks made by politicians, warning that they risk undoing years of progress toward peace and reconciliation.
Pastor Idi Abdi cautioned leaders against divisive language, saying their statements often trickle down to communities and ignite unnecessary conflicts.
“Matamshi mabaya ambayo wanasiasa wanatoa wakati wanajipigania, yanatugawanya sisi hasa vijana, kinamama na wafanyabiashara,” he said. “Such reckless words divide families and business communities that have lived together peacefully for years.”
Reverend Simon Murage echoed the same call, urging Kenyans to reject leaders who promote hate speech and political intolerance.
“Ni matamshi ya kuchochea, si ya kuunganisha. Tunaomba wale wanasiasa wanaotoa matamshi kama hayo wakome. Tunawakemea kwa upendo, kwa sababu tunataka amani na umoja kama Wakenya,” he stated.
National Context: A Fragile Political Climate
Kenya’s political landscape has been increasingly tense since the passing of Raila Odinga, who for decades served as a unifying figure across the political divide. Analysts note that his absence has left a vacuum that opportunistic politicians are attempting to fill, often by appealing to regional loyalties or stoking partisan sentiments.
With less than two years to the next general election, new alliances are emerging, old rivalries are resurfacing, and the tone of political discourse has become more confrontational.
Archbishop Muheria’s warning, therefore, reflects a growing concern that Kenya could slide into chaos if leaders fail to exercise restraint and promote national unity.
Clergy Call for Leadership Grounded in Service
The Nyeri Archbishop reminded leaders that the essence of leadership lies in service, not power. Drawing inspiration from biblical teachings, he said the greatest leaders are those who serve with humility and compassion.
“True leadership is about coming down from your throne and walking with the people,” he said. “It is about listening, forgiving, and leading with love not arrogance.”
Muheria emphasized that Kenyans are growing weary of empty political promises and endless feuds. He called on leaders to redirect their energy toward improving healthcare, education, job creation, and food security issues that directly affect citizens.
“People are suffering. The economy is struggling. Instead of fighting for power, let us fight poverty,” he said. “We urge our leaders to serve, not to rule.”
Prayers and Unity Calls in Mombasa
In Mombasa, hundreds of residents gathered for interfaith prayers to honor the late Raila Odinga, celebrating his role in championing democracy, social justice, and national unity.
Those who attended described Odinga as a leader who put country before self.
“Aliweka ubinafsi yake nyuma na akaweka Kenya mbele. Alipigania mwananchi,” said Denis Aduda, a resident of Mombasa’s Tudor area.
“Raila alikuwa na mikakati dhabiti. Jambo akilifikiria, lazima alitekeleze,” added Fatma Mapaps.
The prayers, held at the Tononoka Grounds, also turned into a call for peace and unity as Kenyans reflected on Odinga’s legacy and the importance of maintaining national cohesion beyond politics.
A Nation at a Crossroads
The church’s message has resonated widely, especially among citizens who feel disillusioned by the political class. Many Kenyans are calling for a shift in tone, urging leaders to focus on governance, economic recovery, and reconciliation rather than endless campaigns.
Archbishop Muheria concluded his sermon with a heartfelt plea to both leaders and citizens:
“Let us choose peace over pride, dialogue over division, and love over hatred. Our nation’s destiny depends on how we treat one another not just in words, but in deeds.”
As Kenya moves closer to another election cycle, the clergy’s message serves as both a warning and a prayer: that political ambition never again push the country toward the brink of chaos.
