Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Ruku has ignited fresh political debate after alleging that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua deliberately orchestrated disruptions in churches as part of a strategy to win public sympathy. Speaking during a public forum, Ruku accused Gachagua of using places of worship to stage scenes of chaos, portraying himself as a victim in order to rally emotional support from Kenyans.
Allegations of Political Theatre in Churches
According to CS Ruku, recent incidents involving tension and interruptions during church services were not spontaneous but carefully planned. He claimed the disruptions were meant to paint Gachagua as a persecuted leader, especially at a time when political temperatures remain high. Ruku argued that churches should remain neutral spaces dedicated to worship and unity, warning against what he termed the “weaponisation of religion for political mileage.”
Call to Keep Politics Out of Pulpits
The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that dragging political rivalries into churches undermines their sanctity and risks dividing congregations. He urged political leaders across the divide to respect religious institutions and avoid using them as platforms for sympathy-driven politics. Ruku went ahead to state that churches must not become arenas for political drama and that leaders should seek public support through honest engagement rather than staged confrontations.
Gachagua Yet to Respond
At the time of publishing, Rigathi Gachagua had not issued a formal response to the accusations. His allies, however, have previously dismissed similar claims, arguing that Gachagua has been unfairly targeted by political opponents. The allegations are likely to deepen existing political tensions, especially as leaders position themselves ahead of future electoral contests.
Growing Debate on Religion and Politics
The remarks by CS Ruku have once again reopened a national conversation on the intersection of faith and politics in Kenya. While churches have historically played a role in social justice and national dialogue, critics argue that overt political involvement risks eroding public trust in religious institutions. As the debate continues, many Kenyans are calling for restraint, accountability, and respect for spaces meant to unite rather than divide.
