President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and ex-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attended different church services across the country today, underscoring the shifting political dynamics in Kenya.
President Ruto worshipped at AIC Jericho in Nairobi, where he was joined by several elected leaders, including National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah. The service reflected Ruto’s continued engagement with the church, a key constituency in his political base.
Meanwhile, former President Uhuru Kenyatta was in Meru for a Thanksgiving mass at St. Joseph’s Cathedral. The event marked the installation of Bishop Jackson Murugara as the Coadjutor Bishop of Meru. Murugara, who previously served at the Consolata Shrine in Westlands, Nairobi, was officially appointed on January 16, 2025. The appointment was published in L’Osservatore Romano in Rome and conveyed to the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) by the Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, Archbishop Bert Van Megen. The KCCB lauded Murugara’s appointment as a recognition of his years of service and dedication to the faith.
Uhuru was accompanied by former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya and ex-Meru Woman Representative Florence Kajuju, signaling his continued influence in the region’s politics.
At the same time, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attended the consecration and enthronement of Venerable Canon Gerald Mwangi Muriithi as the 3rd Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Mt. Kenya West in Nyeri. The event was significant as it took place in Gachagua’s home turf, and he was joined by a section of political allies. Gachagua’s presence at the event reinforced his ties with the region and the Anglican Church, which has historically played a key role in the socio-political landscape of Mt. Kenya.
The separate church visits by the three leaders highlight Kenya’s evolving political alignments, with each leader strengthening their base in different regions. While Ruto continues to consolidate his support in Nairobi, Uhuru maintains his influence in Meru, and Gachagua solidifies his presence in Mt. Kenya West. The unfolding political landscape will be keenly watched as the country moves forward.
