The Catholic Church has urged politicians to refrain from turning the pulpit into a political avenue.
In a statement issued by Archbishop Most Rev Anyolo of the Archdiocese of Nairobi on Monday, November 18, 2024, it stated that turning the church’s pulpit into a stage for political rhetoric undermines the sanctity of worship spaces.
“Politicians are urged to refrain from turning the pulpit into a stage for political rhetoric, as such actions undermine the sanctity of worship spaces,” he stated.
The Archbishop further said that the church, which effectively serves as a space for spiritual growth and community guidance, must remain a neutral entity and free from political influence.
In addition, he says that politicians are welcome to attend church for their spiritual nourishment and not for their political gain.
“The Church must remain a neutral entity, free from political influence, to effectively serve as a space for spiritual growth and community guidance.
“Politicians are most welcome to attend church for their spiritual nourishment, but they are encouraged to do so as ordinary Christians, without leveraging their positions for political gain,” he added.
Donation
He said that the church maintains its stand on donations from politicians, stating that such money violates the law.
“Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024, under Section 10(2), it is deemed that any person who solicits or receives money or a benefit conducts a fundraising appeal, regardless of whether the representation made was direct or indirect.
“The bishops have consistently maintained a firm stance on the matter of politicians donating money to churches, highlighting the ethical concerns and the need to safeguard the church from being used for political purposes,” he added.
Meanwhile, Anyolo said that they strongly discourage the use of church events for fundraising and platforms for political self-promotion, adding that any contribution that violates the law would be refunded.
“The Catholic Church strongly discourages the use of church events such as fundraisers and gatherings as platforms for political self-promotion.
“The Church is called to uphold integrity by refusing contributions that may inadvertently compromise its independence or facilitate unjust enrichment,” he directed.
Church’s stance
In regards to the statement issued by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, Anyolo said that they will continue to address the critical national issues that require urgent attention from the government.
He further urged the politicians to demonstrate ethical leadership by addressing the pressing issues raised by the Catholic bishops.
“The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) issued a statement on November 14, 2024, addressing critical national issues that require urgent attention from the government. This statement was read in all the churches within the Archdiocese of Nairobi yesterday, Sunday, 17th November 2024.
“Political leaders are urged to demonstrate ethical leadership by addressing the pressing issues raised by the KCCB, including political wrangles, corruption, politics of self-interest, violations of human rights and freedom of speech, the culture of lies, issues surrounding NHIF, unfulfilled promises, misplaced priorities, selfish agendas to extend terms of elected leaders, and over-taxation of Kenyans,” he said.
