Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Diocese of Eldoret Bishop Dr. Christopher Ruto has urged political leaders to desist from rhetoric and actions that create fear and intimidation among Kenyans ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Bishop Ruto particularly condemned the reported abduction of a senior journalist from The Standard, saying such incidents undermine democracy and threaten media freedom.
Speaking after a Cathedral Council meeting at St. Matthew’s Church in Eldoret, the bishop said journalists must be allowed to perform their duties freely and without fear or favour.
He also criticized remarks attributed to a politician suggesting that a particular community should vote for a specific leader, terming such pronouncements a violation of citizens’ constitutional right to choose their leaders.
“Every Kenyan has a constitutional right to vote according to their own will, without intimidation or coercion from anyone,” Bishop Ruto said.
He called on political leaders to respect the freedom of citizens to choose their preferred leaders and political parties, warning against a return to politics in which communities are pressured to vote along predetermined lines.
Bishop Ruto further urged elected leaders to focus on delivering services to the people instead of engaging in premature political campaigns ahead of the 2027 polls.
“I urge leaders currently in office to work for Kenyans first. The time for politics and campaigning has not yet arrived. It is a grave injustice for Kenyans to be denied services because of early politicking,” he said.
The bishop stressed that leaders still have a responsibility to fulfil their development pledges and serve the electorate who entrusted them with public office.
He also called for the protection of media freedom, saying a free press is essential to ensuring that Kenyans have access to information and that public institutions remain accountable.
His remarks come amid renewed public concern over the safety of journalists and freedom of expression following the reported abduction of The Standard journalist Alex Kiprotich earlier this month.
By Ekuwam Sylvester
