Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit of the Anglican Church of Kenya has announced a ban on politicians addressing congregants during church services. The move reinforces the church’s commitment to keeping places of worship free from political influence.
Speaking on Sunday at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Ole Sapit emphasized that while political leaders are welcome to attend services, they will not be allowed to speak inside the church. Instead, if they wish to address congregants, they must do so outside after the service.
“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 declared.
The Archbishop further clarified that politicians’ presence will still be recognized during services, but they will only be asked to stand and wave to the congregation without making remarks. He emphasized that this policy will apply to all Anglican dioceses and churches nationwide.
“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,” he reiterated.
Additionally, Ole Sapit declared an end to public announcements of offertory contributions in Anglican churches, stressing that giving should be a private act of faith.
“We have already declared, and we want to reaffirm today, that giving in the Anglican Church will not be announced. Just give as God directs you to give. What we offer to God does not need to be proclaimed to human beings,” he stated.
The service was attended by several prominent leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
This directive underscores the Anglican Church’s stand on maintaining the sanctity of worship spaces and ensuring that political agendas do not interfere with spiritual gatherings.
