Churches ban political speeches, say even Ruto isn't exempted

The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has banned politicians from making speeches in its member churches, following in the footsteps of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK).

The move, which applies to all political figures, aims to keep worship spaces free from politics.

NCCK announced the restrictions after an executive committee meeting in Limuru, Kiambu County.

The new rules state that politicians will not be allowed to address congregants during services. Instead, they can make public statements outside the church premises.

Additionally, financial contributions from politicians will be treated like those from ordinary members, without any special recognition or announcements.

Church leaders have also been advised to maintain neutrality by avoiding endorsements or opposition to any political leader or party.

The directive seeks to prevent politicians from being given undue prominence in church gatherings. However, church leaders may use visits by politicians to present community concerns, as long as the discussions remain within their mandate.

No exemptions

Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit, who leads the ACK, reiterated that the restrictions apply to all politicians, including President William Ruto.

Speaking at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Nyeri during the consecration of Mt. Kenya West Bishop Gerald Mwangi Muriithi, emphasized the importance of keeping places of worship sacred.

"We have said that even if the President was here, we will still do the same. Because we want what happens in the worship sanctuary to be respected, and other communication will be given out there because it would not be part of worship," Sapit said.

The enforcement of the directive was evident during the Nyeri service, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, his wife Pastor Dorcas, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, and People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua were not allowed to address the congregation.

Archbishop Sapit clarified that the rule was not a personal attack on any leader.

“It is not that we don’t love you (Gachagua), but we had to establish protocol for the Anglican Church, that we will allow you to greet people outside,” he said.

On the same day, President Ruto and his allies attended a service at the African Inland Church, Jericho, Makadara.

While there, Ruto defended his contributions to religious institutions, describing himself as a builder who has supported many development projects, including schools and churches.

“God has given me a chance to be a builder. And I have built many things. I’m working with the leaders of Nairobi. My aim is to build three thousand new classes for the children of Nairobi; building is part of me. I have built classes since I was an MP," Ruto said.

"I’m also doing a building at State House and in the process of building, we will also build the church because I’m sure that is the will of God.”

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa, who accompanied Ruto, defended the right of Christians to give openly in church.

“It is up to me as a Christian to choose how to give, and I will choose to give openly,” he said.

As the enforcement of church restrictions continues, the debate over the role of politics in religious spaces is expected to remain a contentious issue.