The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has raised concerns over the growing influence of money and religion in shaping Kenya’s democratic process, warning that economic hardship is making many voters, particularly young people, more vulnerable to political manipulation ahead of the 2027 general election.
Findings of a nationwide study released during a stakeholders’ forum in Kwale County indicate that vote buying, the politicisation of religious spaces and the recruitment of unemployed youth into politically sponsored violence are emerging as major threats to credible elections and democratic governance.
The study, conducted across all NCCK regions through individual interviews and focus group discussions, was commissioned following the Gen Z-led protests against the Finance Bill to assess factors influencing citizens’ political choices and participation in democratic processes.
Speaking during the release of the findings at PEFA Church in Kwale, NCCK Coast Region Chairperson Bishop Dr. Peter Mwero said financial inducements and religious influence continue to shape electoral decisions in many parts of the country, often at the expense of accountability and good governance.
“Many citizens make electoral choices based on money or religious influence instead of leadership qualities and public interest. That weakens democracy and undermines good governance,” said Bishop Mwero.
He noted that rising unemployment and economic hardships have left many young people susceptible to political exploitation, with some politicians allegedly using cash incentives to influence voters and recruit youth to disrupt political meetings.
The cleric also expressed concern over the increasing use of places of worship as political platforms, saying some leaders attend religious events primarily to gain visibility and seek political support.
“Places of worship should never become transactional spaces where donations are exchanged for political endorsement. The church must remain an independent moral voice that speaks for justice, truth and accountability,” he said.
Mwero urged Kenyans to elect leaders based on integrity, competence and commitment to public service rather than short-term financial incentives. He further called for greater transparency and stronger oversight of campaign financing ahead of the 2027 polls.
On political violence, the bishop condemned the recruitment of youth into organized gangs to disrupt political activities, warning that while politicians often reconcile after elections, communities are left grappling with long-term divisions and insecurity.
“Youth should reject being used as instruments of violence and instead register as voters and participate peacefully in shaping the country’s future,” he added.
Reverend Opondo Oluoch of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), Diocese of Mombasa, and the youth representative in the NCCK Kwale County Coordinating Committee, challenged young people to make independent political decisions despite prevailing economic pressures.
“As young people, we should not allow money to determine our vote. Our decisions must reflect the future we want for ourselves and for generations to come,” said Oluoch.
He encouraged youth to pursue leadership opportunities and actively participate in governance processes instead of allowing themselves to be manipulated by politicians.
Peninah Mwanyoha Ndegwa, Treasurer of the NCCK Kwale County Coordinating Committee and a member of the Methodist Church in Kenya, said the findings had reaffirmed the church’s responsibility to champion justice and good governance.
“The church cannot remain silent when society is facing moral and governance challenges. We must continue guiding our communities to make informed decisions founded on truth and justice,” she said.
Ndegwa called on churches to intensify civic education campaigns against vote buying, noting that women and young people remain among the groups most vulnerable to electoral bribery due to economic challenges.
“The money offered during campaigns lasts only a day, but the consequences of electing leaders without integrity remain for years. Communities must resist exchanging their votes for temporary financial gain,” she said.
She further urged the government to strengthen interventions aimed at reducing poverty and curbing voter bribery, arguing that addressing economic vulnerability would lessen politicians’ ability to influence electoral outcomes through cash handouts.
The NCCK said the findings will inform future civic education and advocacy initiatives aimed at strengthening electoral integrity, promoting issue-based politics and encouraging informed voter participation as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
By Chari Suche
