Nairobi, Kenya- The days of politicians seizing Sunday services as campaign stops might be numbered—at least in Anglican churches across Kenya.
In a bold move, Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit has barred politicians from making speeches during church services, a decision that’s winning praise from key political figures who, ironically, are often at the pulpit themselves.
Keeping Politics Out of the Pews
Archbishop Ole Sapit, speaking at St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Nairobi, made it clear: no more political grandstanding during services.
From now on, politicians attending Anglican services will be limited to a simple wave of acknowledgment—no speeches, no fundraising announcements. If they have something to say, they can do it outside.
“When the time comes for acknowledging all those who have come, we will do that, but from today henceforth, there will be no opportunity for any political leader to have a speech in the church,” he said.
The move isn’t just about keeping sermons sacred. It’s also about shutting the door on what many see as “dirty money” finding its way into religious spaces.
The days of political figures making hefty donations for optics—often with questionable sources of income—could soon be behind us.
Politicians Supporting Their Own Exile
Surprisingly, some politicians are cheering on the very directive that sidelines them. Former Defense Cabinet Secretary and Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa backed the decision, calling on other churches to follow suit.
“I support the decision by the ACK… banning politics in the church and announcing donations,” Wamalwa posted on X.
I totally support the decision by the ACK announced by Arch Bishop Jackson Ole Sapit during the consecration of Nairobi Diocese Bishop Jonathan Kabiru today,banning politics in Church and announcement of donations. I hope other Churches follow suit so that toxic politics and…
“I hope other churches follow suit so that toxic politics and dirty cash are kept out and the church remains a place of worship, not a political arena.”
Busia Senator Okiyah Omtatah, known for his hardline stance against corruption, gave the ban a thumbs-up by sharing a clip of Ole Sapit’s announcement with the caption, “way to go.”
Even Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, a lawmaker who rarely shies away from political platforms, agreed with the move, albeit with a cheeky twist.
“Let worship places remain sacred,” he said, adding that politicians have plenty of other places to speak—baby showers and bridal showers included.
The Future of Church Fundraising
While politicians may be out of the church spotlight, one lingering question remains: What about fundraising?
In Kenya, churches have long relied on hefty donations from politicians to fund construction and community projects.
Cherargei suggested religious organizations develop “a decent and structured way” to handle contributions without relying on political figures making public pledges.
The Anglican Church’s directive could signal a broader shift in Kenya’s religious and political landscape.
Whether other denominations follow suit remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—come Sunday, the pulpit will be reserved for preachers, not politicians.
