Politicians accompanying President William Ruto were barred from speaking during a church service in Bomet. This service, held at the newly completed Chebango AGC church in Sotik, marked a significant moment for both the church and the local community.
The official opening and dedication of the Chebango AGC church attracted a range of dignitaries and political figures, including Governor Hillary Barchok, who hosted the President. Other notable attendees were Senator Hillary Sigei, Dagoreti South MP John Kiarie, Mwangi Kiunjuri (Laikipia East), Francis Sigei (Sotik), Brighton Yegon (Sotik), and JSC Commissioner Isaac Rutto. Roads Cabinet Secretary nominee Davis Chirchir, a key supporter of the church’s construction, was also present.
Bishop Robert Langat, who presided over the service, made a deliberate choice to emphasize the church’s role as a sacred space, free from political influence. In his remarks, Bishop Langat acknowledged the presence of the politicians but adhered strictly to the principle of keeping the service focused on worship rather than political discourse. “Our leaders who are here today please stand wherever you are…we are grateful that you came,” Bishop Langat stated, recognizing the dignitaries without extending any further invitation for political speeches.
This decision aligns with a broader trend among church leaders to maintain the sanctity of worship spaces by limiting political activities within their precincts. By setting this precedent, Bishop Langat reinforces the church’s role as a neutral and holy space, dedicated to spiritual reflection rather than political maneuvering.
President Ruto supported this approach, highlighting the importance of respecting the church’s sacred nature. “Kanisa ni mahali patakatifu tutaheshimu na maneno yale mengine ya kisiasa tutafanya nje ndiyo tuweke heshima kwa kanisa vile inavyofaa,” Ruto declared. Translated, this means, “The church is a holy place and we will give it the respect it deserves, we will take our politics outside the church in that respect.”
The President’s endorsement of this principle marks a significant shift in the interaction between political figures and religious institutions. By publicly committing to keep political discussions out of worship settings, Ruto and other leaders are acknowledging the need to preserve the church’s role as a space for spiritual and communal gathering, free from the influence of political agendas.
This new practice has been met with widespread approval from various quarters. Many view it as a positive step towards ensuring that places of worship remain neutral zones where individuals can engage in spiritual activities without the distractions and divisions of political debate. It also reflects a growing awareness among political leaders of the importance of respecting the distinct roles of religious institutions in society.
As this trend continues to evolve, it may set a new standard for how political leaders engage with religious events. Other communities and regions might follow suit, leading to a broader acceptance of the principle that churches, mosques, temples, and other places of worship should remain apolitical.
In conclusion, the decision to limit political speech during the church service in Bomet represents a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue about the separation of church and state. It underscores the importance of preserving the sanctity of worship spaces and sets a precedent that could influence similar practices elsewhere.
