Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo has urged religious leaders to prevent politicians from using church platforms to spread tribalism, hatred and political intolerance.
Speaking during a service at St Pascal Catholic Church in Chiga, Homa Bay County, Omollo said places of worship must remain centres of spiritual nourishment, peace and national cohesion rather than arenas for divisive political campaigns.
He asked church leaders to safeguard the sanctity of religious institutions by ensuring that speakers invited to address congregations promote truth, unity and responsible leadership.
“Let us not desecrate our churches by allowing platforms meant for spiritual nourishment to be used to spread division and hatred. The Church must continue standing for truth, peace and unity,” Omollo said.
The PS said religious institutions wield significant influence in Kenyan society and must use that position to challenge misinformation, intolerance and conduct that threatens peaceful coexistence.
He noted that churches have historically played a central role in shaping values, nurturing responsible citizens and resolving disputes within communities.
Omollo said Kenya’s political and economic progress would depend on leaders and citizens rejecting attempts to divide the country along ethnic, regional and political lines.
He maintained that all Kenyans should have equal opportunities to succeed, regardless of their community, political affiliation or region of origin.
The PS also called on elected leaders to prioritise development and service delivery instead of engaging in rhetoric that could create hostility between communities.
He said leaders had a responsibility to protect national cohesion, particularly when addressing citizens from influential platforms such as churches, public gatherings and community forums.
“Development cannot thrive where there is hatred, conflict and suspicion among citizens. We must continue working together to build a peaceful, united and prosperous country,” he said.
Omollo praised the Catholic Church for its contribution to Kenya’s development through investments in education, healthcare and community welfare programmes.
He described the Church as a key government partner whose schools, hospitals and social programmes have improved access to essential services in different parts of the country.
The PS said church-sponsored institutions had also helped promote discipline, moral responsibility and community service among citizens.
He further lauded President William Ruto’s administration for pursuing what he described as an inclusive development agenda intended to ensure government programmes and projects reach all regions, regardless of their voting patterns.
Omollo said the government would continue working with religious institutions and other stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence and strengthen the country’s social fabric.
His remarks come amid growing debate over the use of church services by political leaders to address governance and electoral issues. Religious platforms have increasingly attracted politicians seeking to communicate with congregations and consolidate support at the grassroots.
While churches have traditionally provided space for national dialogue and accountability, concerns have also been raised about political statements delivered during religious gatherings and their potential to undermine the spiritual purpose of worship.
The service was attended by several national and county leaders, including Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga.
Others included Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’, Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohammed, Nyando MP Jared Okelo, former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo and Lake Basin Development Authority Managing Director Wycliffe Ochiaga.
Several Members of County Assembly and other local leaders were also present.
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