Atheists in Kenya want Catholic priests who conducted Palm Sunday mass arrested

The Atheists in Kenya (AIK) society is now calling for the arrest of the Catholic Church leadership who led the Palm Sunday mass arrested for disregarding the government’s directive on social distancing.

The society Chairperson Harrison Mumia, in a statement to the press on Sunday, said the priests stood less than one meter away from each other while administering Holy Communion.

AIK also noted that one of the priests was seen holding a microphone next to the other using his hand during the mass held at the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi.

“We are calling for the arrest of the Catholic Church leadership that conducted the mass at Holy Family Basillica, including His Eminence, Cardinal Bishop John Njue,” read the statement.

“We expect the Catholic Church to lead the way in the fight against coronavirus. The leadership of the Catholic Church should take a leading role in practicing social distancing so that Kenyans, many of whom are Christians can heed the calls to stay far enough away from each other.”

AIK, while noting that 15 athletes who were found training in a group in violation of social distancing rules in Elgeyo Marakwet were also arrested, stated that the church leadership should not be given preferential treatment.

“Social distancing is not just a buzz word. It is a tool that public health officials and experts from all over the world recommend to slow the spread of a disease that is being passed from person to person,” added the statement.

“Social distancing is critical in flattening the curve by easing the pressure on healthcare providers until a cure or vaccine for the virus is developed.”