This archive report was first published on 21 August 2019.
Published on August 21, 2019, Anglican Archbishop Jackson ole Sapit has cautioned that the ongoing referendum debate is becoming increasingly divisive and could easily derail the government's development agenda.
Speaking during a pastors' conference in Nakuru, Archbishop Sapit urged the political class to put aside their ambitions and focus on the plebiscite. The conference, hosted by Kabarak University Vice Chancellor Henry Kiplagat, brought together bishops and priests from all 41 Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) dioceses.
“The referendum talk is dividing the country. Let us do a proper audit of the current Constitution to ensure we deal with topical issues. This should not be about sharing political power,” Archbishop Sapit said.
He emphasized the need for leaders to reduce political temperatures surrounding the plebiscite, warning that unnecessary tension could arise. “We are all under one God and one Government and we need to preach unity. It is unfortunate that when it comes to politics, we put everything else aside and engage in power games. The cost will be an aborted development agenda,” Sapit said.
Archbishop Sapit clarified that the Anglican Church has yet to take a stance on the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) and Punguza Mizigo, stating that their position would be determined after comparing the recommendations of both initiatives.
His sentiments were echoed by Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui, who called for humility and development among leaders. “It is too early and the elections are three years away. The issue of peace is very critical and those making inflammatory statements should cease. Stop the drum beats of succession politics,” Governor Kinyanjui said.
