This archive report was first published on 11 July 2021.
As the 2022 general elections draw near, the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) in Kenya has taken a firm stance against politicians misusing church services to advance their interests.
On July 11, 2021, PCEA Secretary General Robert Waihenya announced that the church will no longer allow leaders to politic in its churches, citing the need to respect the altar and maintain unity among members.
Waihenya noted that the church's business committee had expressed concern over the misuse of the altar by politicians during the 2021 meeting held on July 1.
“The Business committee in a regular meeting held on 1st July 2021 noted with concern that this being a political season, the Church altar is being disrespected or misused by the politicians,” Waihenya said.
As a result, all politicians attending PCEA church services will be treated like other members and will not be given a forum on the pulpit to do politics.
“Politicians should not be given any forum in our pulpits to do any politics and should attend services just like other members,” the church stated.
This move comes at a time when national leaders are using church services to advance their political agendas, despite a ban on political gatherings.
Deputy President William Ruto, for instance, attended a Sunday service at PCEA Umoja, Embakasi West, Nairobi County, on July 4, before addressing Embakasi residents.
Other leaders, including Amani National Congress leader Musalia Mudavadi and ODM Leader Raila Odinga, have also intensified public engagements, including appearances in funerals, to promote their 2022 ambitions.
