BBI must address inclusivity, says Archbishop Ole Sapit

The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) will reject the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) report if it does not address inclusivity and equitable distribution of resources.

ACK Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit said the church has been advocating for an inclusive government. It "has always opposed a system where the winner takes it all. Let us open up space so that others can also participate in the national agenda,” the archbishop said.

The church wants a peaceful and united county, he added.

The top cleric was speaking on Sunday when he presided over the consecration of the new bishop in Southern Nyanza Simon Edward Onyango in Homa Bay Town.

Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga, Homa Bay Deputy Governor Hamilton Orata and area County Commissioner Harman Shambi were among the leaders at the ceremony.

The archbishop said the ACK will make its final decision on the report after getting a report from a team of experts. He said the church wants constitutional changes that benefit all citizens. 

“The report should not divide the county; leaders should remain peaceful when campaigning for or against the report," the archbishop said.

He added that Kenyans should be given a chance to engage in the amendments of the report.

"There could be areas in the report where Kenyans may feel are not good. They should be given room to make amendments," he added.

Mr Orata appealed to Kenyans to read the report before making any decisions. “I encourage everyone to read the report before making a decision," Mr Orata said.

Mr Rasanga urged the National Government to increase financial allocations to counties.

The archbishop told governors to ensure they maximise usage of funds at their disposal before asking for more. 

"Governors should ensure they improve healthcare services. They should also ensure food security is addressed before asking for more funds," he said.