Kenyans have successfully pressured Lavington United Church to cancel a planned fundraiser that was to feature First Lady Rachel Ruto as the chief guest. This move reflects the deepening frustrations of the Kenyan populace towards political figures amidst ongoing social and economic turmoil.
The controversy began when an invitation card, signed by Reverend Simon Mutahi, was circulated online. It read:
While fundraisers are common in many churches, the involvement of Rachel Ruto, a prominent political figure, drew sharp criticism. Kenyans, still grieving and enraged by the recent deaths of protesters shot by police during anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, viewed her invitation as a tone-deaf decision by the church.
The outrage was swift and widespread. Social media platforms were flooded with posts condemning the church’s decision to invite the First Lady. Many argued that politicians, especially those perceived as unsympathetic to the plight of the people, should not be given platforms in religious settings.
“Kenyans are suffering, and our voices are being ignored. How can the church stand with those in power who do not stand with us?” read one popular tweet.
The backlash was so intense that Lavington United Church was compelled to cancel the event. In a statement, Reverend Mutahi expressed regret for the decision and acknowledged the public sentiment.
This incident is part of a larger trend that has been gaining momentum since the 2022 elections. Cancel culture, originally a phenomenon of social media activism, has now firmly taken root in Kenya. Citizens are increasingly using online platforms to hold politicians and other influential figures accountable for their actions and associations.
Political analysts note that this form of activism is a sign of a more engaged and assertive electorate. “Kenyans are no longer willing to passively accept decisions made by their leaders. They are demanding transparency, accountability, and empathy from those in power,” says political commentator Wanjiku Mwangi.
The involvement of the church in this controversy raises important questions about the role of religious institutions in political matters. Traditionally seen as neutral grounds for community support and spiritual guidance, churches are now finding themselves in the crossfire of political and social conflicts.
As Kenyans continue to navigate a challenging socio-economic landscape, the pressure on religious and other civic institutions to align with public sentiment is likely to increase. The cancellation of the fundraiser at Lavington United Church is a stark reminder of the power of collective action in shaping the public discourse.
