The Church should stop cherry-picking and boldly address all social and health issues that affect the public. Kenyan religious institutions have been silent and given futile solutions to issues such as sexual and gender-based violence and teen pregnancy without factoring lived realities and experiences of all persons.
Is Kenya only 'Christian' when abortion, contraception, LGBTQ+ persons and sexuality issues are involved, not when women are being killed? Religious institutions clearly have shown no moral urgency in the brutal murders of women in the last month. These silent sanctuaries continue to show no urgency for accountability.
Kenya, like many other nations, has been grappling with gender-based violence, particularly the alarming rate of brutal murders of women. The headlines tell stories of lives snuffed out, dreams shattered and families torn apart.
Yet, the pulpits and religious spaces that hold significant influence over the moral fabric of society remain eerily quiet. This disconcerting silence echoes in the face of the brutal murders of Kenyan women. The very institutions designed to provide solace in times of despair seem to be operating in a realm detached from the urgent moral issues facing the nation.
One would expect religious leaders to be at the forefront of condemning such heinous acts, calling for justice and championing the protection of the vulnerable. However, the reality paints a different picture.
The pulpits, which have the power to shape perspectives and influence behaviours in Kenya, often seem more preoccupied with internal matters or political intricacies rather than addressing the pressing moral crisis at hand. Where is the outcry?
Religious institutions are not just places of worship, they are supposed to be beacons of moral leadership. In times of moral crisis, these institutions should be leading the charge in shaping a society that respects human dignity, equality and justice.
The question then arises: Why is there a seeming reluctance to address the atrocities befalling Kenyan women? Where is the voice to hold the government accountable just like they shout on issues like abortion and sex education? Are they divided in their thinking? Who is responsible?
Potential factors may contribute to the apparent reticence of religious institutions in addressing the issue. Societal norms, deeply rooted patriarchal structures and fear of political repercussions could be influencing factors. However, the moral imperative should override such considerations.
The urgency for accountability in the face of gender-based violence cannot be overstated. Kenyan religious institutions must re-evaluate their role in society and acknowledge the weight of their responsibility. Silence in the face of injustice is not neutrality, it is complicity. Religious institutions can take action.
Religious institutions can actively educate their congregations about gender-based violence, challenging harmful stereotypes and advocating the rights and protection of women. They can engage with local communities affected by sexual and gender-based violence, which is crucial.
Religious leaders can establish support systems, offer counselling services and collaborate with organisations working towards the prevention of violence against women.
Religious teachings have a significant impact on shaping societal norms. Religious leaders should critically examine and challenge any interpretations that perpetuate harmful patriarchal narratives contributing to violence against women. This would be addressing the patriarchal narratives that have continued to shape the thinking of society.
Religious institutions can use their authority and position to advocate legal reforms that strengthen the justice system's response to gender-based violence. This includes pushing for swift trials for perpetrators.
Kenyan religious institutions hold a unique position of influence and authority. In the face of brutal murders of women, their voices should ring out, demanding justice, compassion and an end to the pervasive violence.
The urgency for accountability is not just a call to action; it is a call to reclaim the compass that should guide the nation towards a more just and compassionate society.
Youth activist @alvinmwangi254
