Acting Provost of the Anglican Church in Eldoret Rev Nicholas Rotich at the church

The Anglican Church has called on politicians to prioritise peace and national unity as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Acting Provost Rev Nicholas Rotich criticised politicians for engaging in early campaigns and making inflammatory remarks, warning that such conduct could create unnecessary anxiety and divisions in the country.

Speaking at ACK St Matthew's Church in Eldoret, Rotich faulted politicians for failing to wait for the official campaign period set by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), saying this amounted to a violation of the law.

He urged the electoral agency to enforce its timelines and regulations to ensure a smooth electoral process.

Rotich also challenged the media to avoid giving politicians a platform to air their political wrangles. Instead, he urged journalists to focus on content that empowers Kenyans and offers solutions to the challenges facing the country.

"I challenge the media fraternity not to give politicians prominence to spread their conflicts through the media, but to provide content that helps in empowerment and in finding solutions to the problems affecting Kenyans," he said.

Citing the example of the late former Anglican Bishop Alexander Muge, Rotich urged church leaders not to remain silent when the country was losing direction. He said they had a responsibility to speak out against social ills.

He also faulted religious leaders who use their positions and influence to manipulate the public.

Rotich urged politicians to tone down their inflammatory rhetoric, saying political leadership should not become a source of anxiety and hostility among Kenyans.

"Leaders come and go. Since time immemorial, there have always been leaders. Politics should not cause enmity and wrangles. I urge all Kenyans to uphold good morals so that we can have a better nation," he said.

He further challenged religious and political leaders to lay a strong foundation for future generations, give a voice to marginalised members of society and shun pride.

At the same time, Rotich urged parents to remain vigilant and protect their children during the long school holiday by ensuring they engage in meaningful activities.

"This is a long holiday and every parent should ensure their children are protected so that they don't engage in unbecoming behaviour," he said.