Eldoret Human Rights Activist Accuses Bishop Muheria of Engaging in Partisan Politics
Addressing the press in Eldoret town, Kipkorir Ngetich said the church must remain a neutral institution dedicated to preaching the Gospel, nurturing moral values, and offering hope to society rather than engaging in divisive political debates.
Ngetich expressed concern over what he termed as “continuous political attacks” by the cleric against President William Ruto and his administration, arguing that such statements risk undermining the neutrality and credibility of the church among Kenyans.
“The church is understood globally and locally as a spiritual institution whose main responsibility is preaching the Gospel, guiding society morally, defending the voiceless, promoting peace and nurturing spiritual growth. Religious leaders are highly respected because they are expected to unite people and offer hope, not deepen political divisions,” said Ngetich.
According to the activist, while the church has every right to speak against injustice, corruption, immorality and social challenges affecting citizens, it should avoid appearing to align itself with any political faction or opposition agenda.
He alleged that Archbishop Muheria’s recent public remarks criticizing the government had gone beyond normal church guidance and appeared politically motivated, further claiming that the bishop’s statements closely mirrored sentiments often expressed by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and leaders associated with the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).
Ngetich argued that repeated criticism directed at the Head of State regarding government development promises and leadership could create the perception that some religious leaders are actively participating in partisan political campaigns.
“It is hypocrisy of the highest order for some religious leaders to condemn government promises while forgetting that the Christian faith itself is founded on the promises God made to humanity. The church must guide leaders constructively instead of appearing to campaign politically against the government,” he stated.
The activist maintained that the role of the church should be to provide balanced guidance, encourage peaceful dialogue and promote reconciliation during politically charged moments in the country.
He further claimed that the Catholic Church in Kenya has historically earned immense respect because of its contribution toward democracy, education, healthcare, social justice and economic development, adding that the institution should protect its reputation by remaining above political competition.
“The church in Kenya has been a beacon of hope for many generations. It has contributed immensely to education, healthcare, humanitarian work and the promotion of justice. Kenyans have respected the church because it has always stood for peace, truth and fairness. That noble role should not be spoiled by leaders appearing to pursue personal political battles,” said Ngetich.
The human rights activist also called upon the Catholic Church leadership to clarify whether Archbishop Muheria’s political remarks represented the official position of the church or were his personal views.
“We want the Catholic Church leadership to tell Kenyans whether Bishop Muheria has been entrusted with a political mission within the church. The church is not a tribal institution and should never be turned into a mouthpiece of any political faction,” he said.
Ngetich warned that when religious leaders openly appear hostile toward elected leaders, churches risk losing their moral authority and public trust among sections of the population.
According to him, there is a clear distinction between offering moral guidance to the nation and directly participating in partisan political confrontations.
“The church has a constitutional and moral responsibility to advise leaders and condemn wrongdoing where necessary, but there is a big difference between spiritual guidance and political activism. Once religious leaders openly take political sides, they risk transforming places of worship into political battlegrounds,” he noted.
At the same time, the activist defended President Ruto’s administration, saying the government had maintained cordial relations with religious organizations and had continuously engaged churches in national matters.
He claimed that the Kenya Kwanza administration had provided religious institutions with greater access and consultation opportunities compared to previous governments, arguing that church leaders should use dialogue mechanisms instead of public confrontations.
“President Ruto has maintained an open-door policy for religious leaders and faith-based organizations. Any church leader with genuine concerns about national issues has an opportunity to engage the Executive, Parliament and other state institutions through peaceful consultations,” he stated.
Ngetich further urged all religious organizations across the country to avoid being drawn into political rivalry, especially as political alignments and campaigns continue taking shape ahead of future elections.
He warned that reckless political statements from influential religious leaders could fuel ethnic polarization, political hostility and instability if not handled carefully.
“We are entering a highly sensitive political season where both the government and opposition are seeking public support. Religious institutions must be careful not to be manipulated into partisan political schemes that may divide Kenyans or threaten peaceful coexistence,” he added.
The activist also challenged church leaders to equally address other social issues affecting society, including corruption, moral decay, sexual exploitation and economic hardships, instead of focusing primarily on political criticism.
“It is unfortunate that some religious leaders appear louder on political matters than on moral decay, corruption scandals, sexual harassment and other societal challenges affecting Kenyans today. The church should remain focused on its spiritual mission and moral leadership,” he remarked.
Ngetich called on all churches and religious communities to lead by example by promoting peaceful engagement, dialogue and reconciliation among leaders and citizens.
He emphasized that religious institutions should continue serving as platforms for unity, healing and national cohesion rather than political confrontation.
“The church must remain a symbol of hope, peace and unity for all Kenyans regardless of political affiliation, tribe or social background. Religious leaders should use their influence to bring people together and encourage peaceful dialogue among all arms of government including the Executive, Parliament and the Judiciary,” he concluded.
His remarks come amid growing national debate over the role of religious leaders in Kenya’s political space, with several clergy members in recent months openly criticizing governance, economic challenges, corruption and leadership decisions.
The Catholic Church in Kenya has historically played a key role in advocating for democracy, constitutional reforms, human rights and social justice, often positioning itself as a moral voice during critical moments in the country’s history.
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