Youre free to pray but not to politick in church Bishops to politicians

Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has warned church leaders against giving politicians platform to address congregations.

In a statement to media houses, signed by top KCCB officials, churches were challenged to be the conscience of the society and stay above politics and political affiliations.

“We call upon the clergy not to use the Church or the pulpit to promote any political candidate. It is important to note that Church law forbids priests from engaging in politics or presenting themselves for elections to political positions,” read the statement in party.

They warned politicians against using churches and church functions as campaign platforms saying as a church, they are obliged to be instruments of peace.

“As much as politicians and those aspiring to elective positions are free to worship and pray where they want, they should not use such opportunities to make their campaign statements. Consequently politicians should not be allowed to address the congregations in our houses of worship,” stated the Catholic Bishops.

The Bishops called on Kenyans to remain peaceful before, during and after the elections, adding that there is need to shun politics of hate and disharmony.

“We should never allow few individuals to spoil the peace in Kenya and interfere with our inheritance. We have to learn to choose what is good and reject what is evil and all that is bedeviling our country as we strive to improve the lives of our people.”

“Together we can build a country that is just and free from corruption, a country that is orderly and respects the rule of law and a country where the dignity of every person is respected and valued.”

The debate on whether or not to make political statements at the pulpit has elicited mixed reactions with several legislators supporting the move.

Speaking on Saturday, Kieni MP Kanini Kega said the move was necessary in promoting unity calling on politicians who are interested in making political statement to convene local barazas for that purpose.

“It is despicable for politicians to use Churches to engage in political attacks and rhetoric. Political leaders who are interesting in political exchanges should organise public barazas to engage in politics and leave churches out of it,” Kega said.

There has been perceived cases of double speak on the issue with a Catholic Church in Mathari, Nyeri County hosting several legislators in a harambee which turned political.

Speaking at a church service in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County, Murkomen openly rejected the call by religious leaders to avoid participating in harambees in Christian churches saying they will not be stopped from helping Churches.

“No one will separate us from the pulpit because it is the second home to some of us. We will not be stopped from participating in church harambees,” said Murkomen.

The harambee was also attended by Deputy President William Ruto.