We don’t need you: Kindiki tells off churches that reject govt ties
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has declared the government’s readiness to partner with churches that only welcome government collaboration.
Speaking at St. Theresa Riiji Catholic Parish in Central Imenti on Sunday, May 11, 2025, the DP emphasised the importance of respecting church authority, affirming the government’s readiness to work in harmony with willing churches for the growth and betterment of the nation.
“Those who don’t need us, we will not go there. We cannot take advantage of a church congregation when we have the power to hold a big political rally outside the church. So it is clear as believers, when we come to church, we are under the authority of church leaders,” he said, underlining the humility and cooperation.
“We are not in any competition with any church, any faith, or any leader. We will partner in a manner that the church will tell us because we don’t need any conflict with the churches,” Kindiki said.
The DP made it clear that the government’s outreach to faith institutions is grounded in respect and mutual understanding, noting the church is an important tool in the growth of the economy.
“Those who want our help, we will extend it; and those who don’t want it, it is fine. If they say we announce our contribution or not, we will stick to their rules,” he added.
Kindiki, at the same time, cautioned the critics of the government against misleading and inciting Kenyans under religious doctrines.
He took a swipe at his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, for inciting and brewing division in Mt. Kenya to advance his own political interests.
He warned the locals against falling into the opposition trap, accusing them of going around making empty noise to mislead Kenyans, terming them as enemies of development.
“Tell them we are waiting and ready for them. Come 2027, they will not believe it. They will lose terribly because our track records will be clear and our scorecards,” Kindiki said.
He blamed Gachagua for poor delivery when he held the second most senior seat, daring him to present his track record to Kenyans instead of always being busy making empty rhetorical noise for his own political interest.
He further lauded the Catholic Church’s pivotal role in national development, particularly in education, health, and water projects.
“I respect the Catholic Church for sponsoring many schools, hospitals, as well as many water projects. We consider the Catholic Church and other denominations indispensable partners in the socio-economic development of our country,” the DP added.
Kindiki, at the same time, highlighted Kenya’s recent economic milestones, crediting them to the government’s interventions to lower the cost of living.
“The economy has recovered. Two weeks ago, the IMF and World Bank ranked Kenya as the sixth-largest economy in Africa. We have now overtaken Ethiopia and Angola,” he noted.
Turning his focus to regional development, the Deputy President announced a raft of transformative infrastructure projects aimed at revitalizing Meru County.
He addressed the long-standing concern over the deadly black spot at Nithi Bridge, which has claimed many lives over the years.
“Many lives have been lost at Nithi Bridge. But there is hope. President Ruto has secured funds for its reconstruction. Construction will begin in the next few months,” he assured.
Kindiki also unveiled plans to boost electricity connectivity under the last-mile initiative, noting the government has allocated Ksh1.8 billion to connect at least 20,000 new households, including homes, schools, health centres, and dispensaries.
Accompanied by Meru County Governor Mutuma M’Mthinkia, a section of area MPs and Members of County Assembly, the DP further disclosed that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) have been entrusted with the expansion of Meru Level 5 Hospital, which will be upgraded to Level 6 and managed by the national government in a bid to improve health services for the large eastern region.
