The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) has broken its silence, issuing a statement addressing critical governance issues and expressing profound concern over the country’s state of affairs.
In remarks signed by Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit, the church reaffirmed its commitment to speaking truth to power and holding leaders accountable for their actions.
Responding to reports linking the ACK to government critics, the church clarified its position, emphasizing that it does not align with opposition voices but instead represents the realities faced by ordinary Kenyans.
“The church leaders have spoken the minds of many and expressed the truth about the situation on the ground. No amount of intimidation will deter the church from calling out evil and speaking the truth to power,” the statement declared.
The ACK urged government officials and the political elite to abandon arrogance and engage with citizens meaningfully.
“Let the political class and those in government come down from their high horses, listen to the cries of the people, and address the myriad of problems bedeviling the country,” Archbishop Ole Sapit said.
He stressed the importance of delivering services and fostering honest dialogue instead of perpetuating rhetoric.
The church highlighted systemic failures across key sectors, citing the struggles of public universities under a new funding model, financial constraints in public schools due to delayed capitation, and the chaotic transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
These, coupled with punitive taxes, rising unemployment, and inhumane evictions, have worsened the plight of ordinary citizens.
Additionally, the ACK raised alarm over cases of abductions, forced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings, demanding government accountability.
“Who should be held responsible if not the government?” the church questioned while urging immediate and transparent action.
Despite its criticisms, the ACK emphasized that its intent is not to antagonize the government but to push for meaningful reforms.
The church called for transparency, accountability, and time-bound solutions to urgent issues, particularly in healthcare, where delays have dire consequences.
Quoting Proverbs 29:2, the Archbishop drew attention to the link between leadership and public welfare: “When the rulers are good, the people are happy. When the rulers are evil, the people complain.”
The ACK’s bold statement underscores a growing call for leaders to rise above political posturing and address the challenges facing Kenya with urgency, transparency, and compassion.
By Beth Nyaga –
