Why the ACK Archbishop Ole Sapit Banned Politics in the Church.

Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit sparked national debate after making a bold decision to bar politicians from speaking at church functions. This came during the Consecration and Enthronement of Bishop Jonathan Kabiru as the 3rd Bishop of the ACK Nairobi Diocese at St. Stephen’s ACK in Makadara Constituency, Nairobi.
The move comes at a time when churches in Kenya have been under immense pressure for allowing politicians to use the pulpit as a political battleground. The growing concern among Kenyans is that churches have become platforms for divisive rhetoric, blatant lies, and grandstanding. Politicians have often turned church services into political rallies, attacking their opponents and making unrealistic promises.
Churches Under Fire for Political Influence
For years, religious institutions have faced criticism for their association with politicians, particularly regarding financial contributions. Despite the ban on church harambees (fundraisers), politicians continue to donate large sums of money to churches, raising ethical concerns. Critics argue that these donations compromise the integrity of religious institutions, making them beholden to political figures.
A recent example that angered many Kenyans was President William Ruto’s donation of Ksh 20 million to Jesus Winner Ministry in Roysambu, alongside a pledge of Ksh 100 million. The move triggered widespread outrage, with young Kenyans even organizing peaceful demonstrations outside the church, accusing religious leaders of betraying their followers by aligning with politicians.
Ole Sapit’s Game-Changing Declarations
In response to these growing concerns, Archbishop Ole Sapit made two firm declarations for all ACK churches across the country:
• Church offerings will remain private – The total amount given as offering will no longer be announced in any Anglican Church in Kenya. According to the Archbishop, giving should be a matter between the giver and God, not a public spectacle.
• No political speeches in church – Politicians from all political divides will not be allowed to address congregants during church services. The most they will be allowed to do is wave to the congregation and take their seats.
A Bold Step Towards Restoring the Church’s Integrity
Ole Sapit’s move has been widely welcomed by Kenyans, with many hoping that other churches will follow suit. The public has long expressed frustration with the politicization of religion, arguing that places of worship should remain neutral and focused on spiritual matters.
The big question now is whether other churches will take a similar stand or continue allowing politicians to dominate the pulpit. As Kenyans push for greater separation between politics and religion, the Anglican Church’s new stance could mark the beginning of a broader movement to reclaim the sanctity of places of worship.