By Steve El Sabai
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has sounded an urgent warning, expressing deep concern over what it describes as a rapidly deteriorating national condition. After concluding a two-day Executive Committee meeting at Jumuia Conference and Country Home in Limuru, the council released a strongly worded statement addressing the economic, political, and social challenges threatening the stability of the country.
In their statement, the clergy noted that Kenya is facing a convergence of crises marked by widespread unemployment, particularly among the youth, and increasing inequality. Many young people, the statement observed, are underpaid, underemployed, and disillusioned, to the point that some view death as a release from the misery of poverty. This discontent is compounded by a growing political elite vying for influence and patronage, further fueling corruption.
The council decried the country’s worsening fiscal distress, citing ballooning debt, institutional weaknesses, and rising taxes that are choking ordinary Kenyans. It questioned the rationale behind government spending plans that far exceed projected revenues, warning that the consequences will be devastating if unchecked.
A major focus of the NCCK’s concern was the state-sponsored abductions, torture, and killings of protestors during recent demonstrations. The council described Kenya as having effectively become a police state and urged the government to respect the Constitution rather than rule by fear. Churches across the country were encouraged to dedicate Sunday, June 29, to reflecting on youth, justice, and national healing, and to support affected families materially and spiritually.
The NCCK also expressed unease over the integrity of the upcoming 2027 General Election, accusing the government of deliberately disobeying court orders in the appointment of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) officials. It warned against ongoing efforts to intimidate or replace Supreme Court judges, calling it a dangerous attack on the judiciary’s independence.
The council condemned the practice of politicians conducting so-called “empowerment” rallies, which they likened to throwing seeds at chickens to lure them in. It urged citizens to reject handouts and demand policy-driven leadership that addresses long-term needs. In education, the council suggested scrapping the bursary system managed by elected leaders and instead channeling those funds into direct school capitation.
On foreign policy, the NCCK warned against Kenya’s reported support for armed rebel groups in neighboring countries, emphasizing that such actions violate the country’s long-standing non-alignment principle and endanger national security.
Church leaders were also asked to reclaim sanctuaries as spaces for genuine worship, free from political influence. The council called for an end to political speeches in churches and advocated for discreet, accountable giving from all congregants regardless of status.
In closing, the NCCK called on Kenyans to pray for the nation and hold leaders accountable. The letter concluded with a stirring reminder from Kenya’s National Anthem: “O God of all creation, bless this our land and nation. Justice be our shield and defender. May we dwell in unity, peace and liberty. Plenty be found within our borders.
