ACK bishop raises alarm over rising political hostility

The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) has expressed concern over what it describes as a growing culture of political hostility in the country.

ACK warned that inflammatory rhetoric and divisive politics could undermine national unity and peace.

Speaking on behalf of the church, Major (Rtd) Sam Gachathi, the Bishop of ACK Nyahururu Diocese, urged political leaders across the political divide to exercise restraint in their public engagements and embrace respectful discourse.

Bishop Gachathi said the increasing use of insults, abusive language and incitement in political conversations was worrying and threatened to erode the values that should guide leadership.

"I wish to express concern over the growing culture of political hostility in our country. Insults, abusive language and incitement continue to characterise sections of public discourse," he said.

The bishop noted that leadership is a sacred trust that requires those entrusted with public office to conduct themselves with dignity and responsibility.

"Leadership is a sacred trust, and those entrusted with public office must speak with dignity, restraint and responsibility. Words have power either to build or destroy," he said.

His remarks come at a time when political temperatures are rising across the country amid increased competition among rival political camps ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Recent weeks have witnessed heated exchanges between leaders from both the government and opposition sides, with accusations and counter-accusations dominating political rallies and social media platforms.

Gachathi warned that such rhetoric could have far-reaching consequences if left unchecked, particularly in a country that has previously experienced politically instigated tensions.

"We therefore call upon political leaders across the political divide to avoid inflammatory statements, personal attacks and divisive rhetoric that may endanger peace and national cohesion," he said.

The church leader emphasised the need for leaders to prioritize issues affecting ordinary Kenyans rather than engaging in confrontational politics that deepen divisions among citizens.

He urged politicians to embrace dialogue as a means of resolving differences and fostering understanding among competing political interests.

"Our nation must reject the politics of hatred and intimidation and embrace dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence," Gachathi stated.

He added that Kenya's diversity should be viewed as a source of strength rather than division, stressing that all citizens have an equal stake in the country's future regardless of their political beliefs or social backgrounds.

"Kenya belongs to all of us irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity or social status," he said.

The bishop further called on Kenyans to remain vigilant against attempts to sow discord and urged citizens to promote unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence in their communities.

His remarks echo similar appeals by religious leaders and civil society groups who have recently cautioned against escalating political tensions, warning that national cohesion must remain a priority as the country navigates an increasingly competitive political environment.