The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has strongly condemned the growing culture of tokenism, ethnic politics and the use of goons to intimidate political opponents, warning that such practices pose a serious threat to the country’s democratic gains ahead of next year’s general elections.
The church has called on political leaders to embrace issue-based campaigns, uphold peaceful political engagement and prioritize the needs of citizens over divisive rhetoric, violence and personal political interests.
Speaking during a Citizen Engagement for Advocacy, Dialogue and Mediation Forum at St. Crispin’s ACK Church in Bungoma, Rev. Johnstone Nyongesa expressed concern over what he described as the increasing trend of politicians using financial handouts, ethnic mobilization and hired goons to gain political mileage.
He warned that the normalization of violence and intimidation during political activities undermines democracy and discourages meaningful public participation in governance.
“We are deeply concerned about the rising cases of tokenism and the use of goons to settle political differences. Such actions threaten peace, democracy and the future of our country. Leaders should compete on ideas and policies, not violence and intimidation,” Rev. Nyongesa stated.
He urged politicians across the political divide to desist from sponsoring violence or hiring groups to disrupt other political meetings and businesses during campaign rallies.
“The country has suffered enough from political violence. As we approach the election period, leaders must exercise restraint and allow every Kenyan to enjoy their democratic rights without fear or intimidation,” he added.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity across the country, including recent disagreements between leaders allied to the Linda Mwananchi movement and Sirisia MP John Waluke over proposed venues for political rallies in Bungoma County.
Rev. Nyongesa challenged Kenyans to reject leaders who thrive on violence and instead elect individuals with integrity, competence and a clear vision for the country’s development.
He particularly appealed to the youth to resist being manipulated by politicians seeking to advance their personal ambitions.
“Please, young people, stop allowing yourselves to be used by politicians to cause chaos and mayhem. Once they achieve their political goals, many of you are abandoned to face the consequences alone,” he said.
He added that voters have a responsibility to carefully scrutinize leaders before electing them into office.
“We should thoroughly evaluate those seeking leadership positions because some are only interested in advancing their personal interests rather than serving the people. That is why we are urging Kenyans to reject tokenism and demand accountable leadership,” he added.
Rev. Nyongesa also commended NCCK for organizing the citizen engagement forums, saying they provide an important platform for residents to openly discuss the challenges affecting their communities and propose practical solutions.
“The objective of these forums offers the locals an opportunity to express what is working and what is not working within the county government so that duty bearers can respond appropriately,” he said.
The forum brought together representatives from civil society organizations, Maendeleo ya Wanawake, church leaders, youth groups and other community stakeholders.
Participants identified several pressing concerns affecting Bungoma County, including challenges in the health sector, rising insecurity, agricultural productivity, youth unemployment and governance issues.
Rev. Nyongesa said the views collected from the public forums would inform NCCK’s advocacy efforts and strengthen citizen participation in governance.
“These engagements bring together leaders, community members, the youth and faith-based organizations to discuss development priorities and recommend practical interventions that can improve service delivery and the lives of ordinary citizens,” he said.
Speaking at the same event, Bungoma County NCCK Vice Chairperson Bishop Sostine Bifwoli called on religious leaders to remain impartial during the political season and continue serving as voices of peace, justice and accountability.
He urged the clergy to avoid partisan politics and instead provide moral guidance that promotes national unity, peaceful coexistence and credible elections.
“As church leaders, our responsibility is to unite people, speak the truth without fear or favour and encourage peaceful coexistence. We must remain neutral politically while standing firmly for justice, accountability and the common good,” he said.
