We’ll bar hate leaders from using church for political gain - bishop
Evangelical Churches of Kenya head Bishop Mark Kariuki (centre), Meru County Ministers Forum Patron Bishop Edward Buria (right), advisory board member Bishop Kiogora Magambo (left) and other church ministers from Meru, Isiolo and Tharaka-Nithi counties address journalists on June 28, 2016 at Jesus House of Grace. PHOTO | PHOEBE OKALL | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- Bishop Mark Kariuki criticises politicians targeting the church and using it for their own political interests.
- He says the church will be watching keenly and name leaders who trigger violence ahead of the polls.
Evangelical churches have said they will bar politicians inciting Kenyans from attending services.
They asked those facing hate-speech charges to “repent” ahead of the 2017 elections.
The churches also urged Kenyans not to vote for leaders spreading hatred.
Speaking at the House of Praise Church in Meru on Tuesday, Evangelical Alliance of Kenya head Bishop Mark Kariuki also criticised politicians targeting the church and using it for their own political interests.
“We are telling politicians that as a church we are not interested [in] the money they bring during harambees.
“If they cannot unite Kenyans, then coming to church to give their money is of no importance. We will not bother with them.
“During the electioneering period they are fond of coming to church and bringing donations so that we can bless them. Let them respect the church and at the same time stop dividing Kenyans,” said Bishop Kariuki.
WATCH KEENLY
He said the church would be watching keenly and name leaders who trigger violence ahead of the polls.
“As clergy we will not keep quiet and see politicians spread hatred among Kenyans. We will rise and take charge in all counties to counter hate mongers.
“The church will support politicians who embrace peace among our people. We are against any evil influence planning to spark chaos during the electioneering period,” he added.
Bishop Kariuki was flanked by other pastors and bishops from Tharaka-Nithi, Isiolo and Meru counties.
