In a dramatic turn of events, President William Ruto and his former deputy Rigathi Gachagua have shifted their political battleground to the church, each vying for the support of religious leaders and their congregations.
In a surprising reversal of his previous stance, President William Ruto has adopted a conciliatory approach towards the Catholic bishops following a week of public disagreements.
The president’s change in tone comes after a series of critical statements from the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) regarding his administration’s performance and alleged culture of lies.
Gachagua’s defensive stance
Rigathi Gachagua, still reeling from his recent impeachment, has positioned himself as a defender of the church against attacks from government officials.
During a Sunday service at PCEA Kerarapon Church in Kajiado North, Gachagua issued a stern warning to MPs, cautioning them against reviving the intolerant politics reminiscent of President Daniel arap Moi’s era.
“That culture of being arrogant and abusive to religious leaders was there in the 1990s during Moi’s regime,” Gachagua noted.
He emphasized the historical consequences faced by leaders who have insulted the clergy, suggesting that such actions could be politically suicidal.
Ruto’s reconciliatory approach
President Ruto, on the other hand, has adopted a more conciliatory tone towards the church. He has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with religious leaders and address their concerns.
This shift in approach comes after initial harsh responses from some of his allies to the bishops’ criticisms. In the past week, Ruto attended a series of Catholic Church events, including Tangaza University graduation, consecration service of Rev. Peter Kimani, and a church service in Soweto.
Speaking at the consecration service of Rev. Peter Kimani as the new Bishop of Embu Diocese, President Ruto acknowledged the concerns raised by the bishops and expressed his willingness to address the issues they highlighted.
This marks a significant departure from the initial defensive responses of his allies, who had lashed out at the bishops for their criticism.
Ruto’s allies led by Deputy Speaker in the National Assembly Gladys Boss Shollei, and Senate Majority Leader, Aaron Cheruiyot, the leaders fired back at the bishops, accusing them of playing to the public gallery.
The church as a political platform
Both Ruto and Gachagua seem to recognize the church’s significant role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing voters. Their recent actions highlight the importance of religious institutions in Kenyan politics, particularly as the country looks ahead to the 2027 elections.
The church has historically played a crucial role in influencing political outcomes, as evidenced by its impact on the 2005 constitutional referendum. Ruto also acknowledged the role of the church in propelling him to victory in his first attempt at the Presidency in the 2022 General Elections.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed Ruto’s sentiments, emphasizing the government’s openness to input from various sectors of society, including the church and civil society. This change in tactic appears to be a response to public pressure and advice from political strategists who warn that attacking the church could backfire.