The Catholic Church in Kenya has issued a directive barring all politicians from addressing congregations inside its churches.
Speaking to the press on Thursday, November 12, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops said politicians should not turn places of worship into campaign platforms as they seek votes ahead of the elections. The bishops noted that candidates have plenty of other ways to reach voters, including the media, public barazas and roadside rallies.
“We are therefore reiterating and directing that there shall be no political addresses given in any of our Catholic churches in any part of the country,” the bishops stated.
They instructed all Catholic priests to implement the directive diligently and treat it with the seriousness it deserves. The bishops warned that political campaigns should not interfere with the role of religious institutions, insisting that churches must remain places of worship rather than platforms for political mobilisation.
The bishops also urged Kenyans to take stock of the performance of their current leaders before casting their votes.
“We have before us a moment to reflect and evaluate the performance of the leaders we have and vote wisely. This is a great opportunity to exercise our right to elect leaders to deliver on their mandate,” they said.
They cautioned voters against letting campaign rhetoric cloud their judgment and asked them to examine politicians and their promises carefully.
“The noise that pollutes the air during political campaigns must not block our individual discernment of who is best suited to represent and lead us,” they added.
