Nairobi: The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit has called for political tolerance and condemned the continued shedding of blood ahead of the 2027 general election. Archbishop Sapit expressed concerns that the country was headed in the wrong direction due to widespread violence during political gatherings.
According to Kenya News Agency, the archbishop highlighted the regrettable loss of innocent lives during political campaigns. The latest incident occurred in Embu County, where two people died and six vehicles were torched. This followed another incident in Homa Bay County during the Linda Mwananchi movement rally last month, where two more people died and six vehicles were also torched.
Speaking in Homa Bay Town during a thanksgiving ceremony for ACK Southern Nyanza Diocese, Sapit accused some political leaders of incitement and fuelling violence. He emphasized the need to hold accountable all politicians who engage in actions leading to the loss of lives, insisting that political pursuits should not result in bloodshed.
He urged leaders to stop seeking political posts at the cost of lives and asked candidates vying for elective positions to prioritize the nation. “I urge politicians to remember that Kenya will still exist after the general elections. Let us handle campaigns in a manner that does not destroy the country,” he appealed.
Archbishop Sapit called for civility in addressing issues and encouraged all Kenyans to respect the rule of law and uphold justice. He specifically urged the youth to reject money from politicians intended to incite violence at rallies, warning that such “blood money” comes with curses.
He advocated for the youth to focus on economic activities rather than being used for violence. Additionally, he urged the judiciary to remain independent and make judgments according to the constitution.
He encouraged leaders to shun corruption, improve service delivery, and challenged religious leaders to remain non-partisan, guiding their followers in godly ways.
