Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa and Busia Senator Okiyah Omtatah have backed the move by the Anglican Church to ban politicians from speaking on their pulpits.
In statements after the directive was given on Sunday, Wamalwa said that he hopes other churches follow suit.
The former Defence Cabinet Secretary insisted that this is the only way politics can be kept out of the church.
He said the church must remain a place of worship.
“I support the decision by the ACK announced by Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit during the consecration of Nairobi Diocese Bishop Jonathan Kabiru today, banning politics in the Church and announcing donations," Wamalwa said on X.
“I hope other Churches follow suit and the Church remains a place of worship, not a political arena."
On his part, Senator Omtatah shared a video of Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit making the announcement, which he captioned with the words, “way to go”.
Wamalwa’s sentiments were also echoed by Nandi Senator Samson Cheragei, who said that politicians have many avenues to convey any message they have.
“On this one, I fully agree with ACK Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit. Let the worship places remain sacred, to be used for preaching, worship, and prayers only without politicking that may desecrate the altar. We politicians have many forums to pass our messages, including—but not limited to—baby showers or bridal showers," he said.
He, however, noted that churches need structured ways for fundraising for building places of worship.
“On harambees, can religious organisations develop a decent and structured way on contributions to assist in building places of worship.”
This follows Ole Sapit’s directive banning politicians from addressing congregants in the Anglican Churches across the country.
Ole Sapit said politicians will be allowed to speak to congregants outside after the services.
He added that their presence will be acknowledged, by standing up and waving to the congregants.
Speaking on Sunday at St Stephen's Cathedral, Ole Sapit further said that Anglican Churches will not announce offertory in churches.
“When the time comes for acknowledging all those who have come, we will do that but I want to give direction that from today henceforth in any Anglican congregation, there will be no opportunity for any political leader to have a speech in the Church,” he said.
“If they so wish to address the congregation, it will be done outside the sanctuary. Not only today but in all our dioceses and churches.”
