MAKUENI, Kenya- The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has called on Kenyans to reject leaders who seek political power by promoting hatred, ethnic divisions and discrimination, urging citizens to uphold unity as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during the installation of Bishop Simon Peter Kamomoe as the second Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Wote, KCCB Chairman Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba said Kenya’s peace and stability depend on citizens refusing to embrace divisive politics.
He urged Kenyans to stand together and reject rhetoric that pits communities against one another for political gain.
“The Church has a responsibility to continue promoting peace and unity by reminding people that our strength lies in living together in harmony and rejecting any form of politics that divides us,” Archbishop Muhatia said.
Call for peaceful coexistence
Archbishop Muhatia said national unity can only be safeguarded if citizens reject leaders who exploit ethnic and social differences to mobilise political support.
He emphasized that peaceful coexistence and mutual respect should remain the foundation of Kenya’s democratic process ahead of the next General Election.
Dialogue key to lasting peace
Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi Philip Anyolo echoed the appeal, urging Kenyans to embrace dialogue, reconciliation and understanding as political activity intensifies.
He said the country’s current political climate requires leaders and citizens alike to focus on building bridges rather than deepening divisions.
According to Archbishop Anyolo, lasting peace can only be achieved through constructive dialogue, mutual respect and a shared commitment to the common good.
Church praised for promoting national cohesion
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior, who attended the installation ceremony, acknowledged the Church’s continued role in fostering peace and providing moral leadership during politically sensitive periods.
He said religious institutions remain important partners in promoting national unity and encouraged continued collaboration between the Church, government and communities to strengthen social cohesion.
A milestone for the Diocese of Wote
The installation of Bishop Simon Peter Kamomoe marked a significant milestone for the Catholic Diocese of Wote.
The ceremony also provided Church leaders, political leaders and members of the public with an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to peace, reconciliation and national unity as Kenya begins preparations for the 2027 General Election.