Nyanza clergy warn against divisive politics ahead of polls

Church leaders in Nyanza have cautioned politicians against divisive politics, warning that emerging trends could undermine democracy and stall development. 

In a joint press statement, the Nyanza Council of Church Leaders urged political actors to avoid actions that may push the country back towards a one-party state, emphasising the need to protect political pluralism. 

The clergy expressed concern over ongoing political realignments and pre-election agreements, advising parties entering into coalitions to retain their identities and ensure transparency in their arrangements.

“Political parties engaging in pre-election or post-election agreements should clearly outline their terms and ensure such agreements are deposited with the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties,” the statement read. 

The leaders particularly addressed the debate around zoning, noting that while it may help parties consolidate strength in their strongholds, it should not be used to lock out other parties or candidates from participating in democratic processes.

“We are of the opinion that zoning should never hinder democracy. Political parties not part of any agreement should be allowed to field candidates in any region,” they said. 

The clergy called for unity within ODM, urging members to work together for the sake of peace and development. 

Quoting the Bible, they said, “A house divided cannot stand,” warning that internal divisions could weaken the party and the region at large. 

The church leaders also referenced past political splits, such as those involving Ford Kenya and Ford Asili, cautioning that similar divisions within ODM could have long-term negative consequences. 

The statement further decried recent political tensions in Nyanza, where some leaders have reportedly engaged in public disputes and attacks against colleagues serving in government under the broad-based arrangement between President William Ruto and former opposition leader Raila Odinga (deceased). 

“It is unfortunate that some politicians are fighting their own colleagues without evidence, including allegations of using goons to harass others,” the leaders said.

They urged those with credible evidence of wrongdoing to report such matters to the police or seek legal redress instead of resorting to public accusations.

The clergy also expressed concern over calls by some politicians demanding the resignation of leaders serving in government, terming such actions counterproductive.

“We are amazed that leaders are being pressured to resign, yet other regions are focused on development. Leaders in Nyanza should instead work together with the six governors in the region to foster growth,” they said. 

Drawing from Kenya’s political history, the church leaders warned against repeating past mistakes that hindered national leadership prospects for the region. 

They cited the fallout between independence-era leaders Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Tom Mboya, arguing that disunity denied the region an opportunity for national leadership.

“History should not repeat itself. When leaders fight, it is the ordinary citizens who suffer,” they said, likening the situation to a proverb “When two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.” 

The council also commended President Ruto for development initiatives in the Nyanza region, noting that his tours and projects over the past three years have had a significant impact. 

“We sincerely appreciate the President for the development work undertaken in Nyanza, which has not been witnessed before,” the statement added. 

The clergy also urged leaders to exercise restraint in their public utterances, warning that inflammatory language could fuel division and slow down development. 

Citing biblical teachings, they called for peace, unity and responsible leadership, emphasising that words have the power to either build or destroy communities.

“Let leaders refrain from speaking evil, seek peace and pursue it for the sake of the region and the country,” they said.

The statement was signed by Apostle Washington Ngede, national patron and chairperson of the Nyanza Council of Church Leaders.

Others included Archbishop Julius Otieno, assistant national chairman, Bishop Philip Osenya, regional Bishop AIC Nyanza , Bishop James Opiyo, chairman Siaya county, among others.