Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has announced a plan by the government to support families of church leaders by helping them access positions in public service.
Speaking on Tuesday, April 15, in Nairobi during a meeting with members of the clergy, Kindiki said the government is ready to work closely with church leadership to ensure that the children and dependants of some clergy members are given opportunities to serve the nation in different government roles.
This, he said, is a way of recognizing and appreciating the commitment of pastors who pray for and guide Kenyans.
Kindiki shared his personal experience growing up in a pastor’s family, saying he understands the challenges that come with ministry work.
“I know that many times, men and women of God dedicate their time praying for others and thinking about the needs of their congregations. In doing so, they often neglect their own families,” he said.
“That is why, through your leadership, we want to make a firm commitment that we will help some of your children and other people you care about to find roles in public service.
This is part of our effort to honor your service to this country,” the Deputy President added.
Kindiki also promised that the government would help churches that are struggling with land ownership documents. He noted that many churches have no title deeds and are unable to secure their properties.
He assured the clergy that the government, working alongside church leaders, will help resolve such issues and ensure churches get proper legal ownership documents.
He emphasized that, “The government, through your support and involvement, will help settle the challenges affecting churches in getting legitimate title deeds for their land and properties.”
In addition to these promises, Kindiki assured the church that the government will continue partnering with religious institutions in the fight against social problems such as corruption, crime, and moral decay in society.
“Our constitution states that Kenya is a democratic country, and while the church and the government have different roles, their goals and missions are aligned. We see the church as a valuable partner in making life better for our people,” he said.
However, this announcement comes at a time when the church has been critical of the government, especially regarding the involvement of politicians in religious matters. Church leaders have recently insisted that politicians should stop dragging churches into political debates and avoid using the pulpit for personal gain.
On April 9, the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) released a statement urging all religious leaders to remain neutral and not show support or opposition toward any political figure.
They encouraged clergy members to be impartial and treat all leaders equally, regardless of their political affiliations.
Just a few days earlier, on April 3, Bishop Willybard Lagho of the Catholic Diocese of Malindi issued a strong directive barring politicians from being given special treatment or addressing worshippers during Mass. He emphasized that churches should remain sacred spaces dedicated to prayer and reflection.
“I want to remind all parish priests, assistant priests, and all the faithful that our places of worship must remain holy.
All who attend Mass should concentrate on prayer, listening to the word of God, and receiving the Eucharist without political interference,” Bishop Lagho stated.
This recent tension highlights the need for balance as the government seeks to strengthen its relationship with the church while respecting its spiritual role and independence.
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