Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly condemned the recent attacks on Catholic bishops by politicians aligned with the government. Speaking at a church service in Kajiado North Constituency, Gachagua urged government-friendly MPs and governors to cease their criticism of religious leaders, emphasizing the importance of humility and respect for the clergy. He warned that the attacks on bishops could have dire political consequences, referencing past history where similar actions led to political downfalls.
The controversy began after a group of government-allied MPs and governors publicly rebuked the Catholic bishops following their criticism of the government’s handling of certain issues. The bishops had, on Thursday, raised concerns over what they described as a “culture of lies” within the government. They urged the ruling administration to be more transparent and accountable in its dealings with the public.
In response to these criticisms, the government-friendly politicians took to social media and public forums, accusing the bishops of overstepping their bounds and interfering in matters of state governance. They argued that religious leaders should focus on spiritual guidance rather than commenting on political affairs. This was seen by many as an attempt to undermine the bishops’ authority, particularly given their long-standing role as moral and spiritual guides in Kenya.
However, Gachagua, who has served in previous administrations under Presidents Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta, warned that disrespecting religious leaders could have disastrous consequences. Drawing parallels with the 1990s, when politicians in the Moi era openly criticized and attacked bishops, Gachagua reminded the politicians that such arrogance often led to political ruin. He cautioned, “We were disappointed when we saw MPs lecturing and taking down our Catholic bishops, those are anointed men of God.”
The former Deputy President also pointed out that the current crop of politicians should learn from history, as many who were arrogant towards religious leaders during the Moi era faced serious repercussions, both politically and personally. He said, “I want to tell you leaders, stop the arrogance. Those of us who have been here for a while know politics and where it ends.”
Gachagua’s remarks reflect a broader concern that political leaders should not disregard the influence and moral authority of the clergy. He highlighted the pivotal role the church plays in shaping public opinion and providing guidance to the masses, particularly through the bishops’ close interactions with the Kenyan people on a weekly basis. “The voice of the church is the voice of God. When our spiritual fathers speak, they don’t just speak in vain,” he said, urging government officials to listen carefully to the concerns raised by religious leaders.
While Gachagua acknowledged that government officials may feel empowered in their positions, he cautioned them to recognize the power dynamics at play when taking on the church. He reminded them that the bishops are deeply connected with the grassroots, often being the first to hear the concerns and frustrations of the people. “If there are leaders who do public participation daily, they are church leaders. If there are people who know what is on the ground, they are church leaders,” Gachagua remarked.
Gachagua also expressed approval of President William Ruto’s recent comments, where he acknowledged that the Catholic bishops had raised valid concerns and assured that the government would take their views into account. This statement was seen as a sign that the government is willing to engage with the church constructively, despite the earlier public criticism of the bishops.
In conclusion, Gachagua’s remarks serve as a reminder to the political class that the relationship between the church and the state in Kenya is delicate and should be handled with respect and reverence. By attacking bishops, politicians risk alienating a powerful and influential institution that has long been a cornerstone of Kenyan society. Gachagua’s call for humility and dialogue with religious leaders may well be a timely reminder to those in power that arrogance towards the church could backfire in ways they might not anticipate.
