NYERI, Kenya — Anthony Muheria has urged political leaders to “mature up” and end the escalating culture of public insults, warning that ongoing verbal clashes are diverting attention from urgent issues affecting Kenyans.
The archbishop criticised the growing trend of confrontational rhetoric between government and opposition figures, saying it undermines meaningful public discourse and weakens leadership accountability.
“We urge Kenyans to stand firm and tell off leaders who are trading insults instead of serving the people,” Muheria said, calling for restraint and a renewed focus on service delivery.
He also took issue with recent attacks on religious leaders, accusing some politicians of unfairly targeting the clergy for speaking out against political intolerance and governance failures.
Muheria defended the church’s role in national affairs, insisting that faith leaders have a responsibility to promote unity and hold leaders accountable.
“The church cannot remain silent when the country is veering off course,” he said, signalling continued engagement on governance and social issues.
His remarks come amid a broader debate over the place of the clergy in politics, sparked in part by comments from President William Ruto, who recently cautioned religious leaders against politicising the pulpit.
Muheria, however, maintained that speaking on national issues does not amount to partisanship but rather reflects the church’s moral obligation to address injustice and societal concerns.
Analysts note that Kenya’s Constitution under Article 32 guarantees freedom of conscience, religion, belief, and opinion, while also allowing religious institutions to participate in public life.
At the same time, the principle of separation of church and state requires a delicate balance to avoid undue political influence.
Muheria’s call adds to growing voices urging leaders to tone down rhetoric and prioritise governance, warning that sustained political hostility risks deepening divisions and eroding public trust in institutions.
