Today, PCEA leaders issued a press statement addressing the current state of the nation. The statement was delivered by the Moderator of the 24th General Assembly, the Rt. Rev. Thegu Mutahi.

In his opening remarks, the Moderator thanked God for the peace and tranquillity prevailing in the country, noting that many Kenyans are able to carry out their daily work across different regions.

In his address, he highlighted the following issues:

Attacks at Churches: The Church expresses deep concern over the attack on worshipers during church services, noting with alarm that no arrests have been made to date. Incidents have been reported in PCEA Kariobangi, AIPCA Gatundu, and most recently St Peter’s ACK Church, Othaya. The church urges the government to thoroughly investigate the incidents and take action against the perpetrators. Politicians are further cautioned against using the Church as a political platform. While PCEA welcomes politicians as worshipers, it maintains a firm stance against political engagement, affirming its non-partisan position while advocating for fairness and good governance.

Address to opposition leaders: The Church acknowledges and appreciates the solidarity shown by opposition leaders in condemning acts that suppress freedoms and undermine justice. At the same time, it appeals to the opposition to exercise restraint when calling for mass action even though the same is provided for in our constitution. The church calls upon reconsideration by the opposition on the mass action noting that previous demonstrations have led to loss of life and destruction of property.

Call for political tolerance: Leaders are called to exercise tolerance, responsibility and restraint. Leaders are urged to avoid remarks that can incite violence.

Grade 10 Placement: While the Church supports the principle that all children should be in school, it notes challenges in learner placement and syllabus rollout, including confusion among learners and inadequate resources. Some learners are yet to report to school. The church calls the government to prioritize facilitating access to education by ensuring the timely release of capitation funds.

SHA Inadequacies: The Church expresses concern over ongoing challenges affecting hospitals, particularly delays in settling medical claims. The Church urges the Government to take immediate corrective action to ensure that cancer patients and indeed all patients do not continue to suffer due to challenges arising from an unreliable and inefficient health insurance scheme.

Voter Registration: The Church calls upon young people, who remain largely unregistered, to register as voters. While street action, civic agitation, and social media campaigns can influence change, youths are reminded that lasting political change is achieved through the ballot.

IEBC CEO resignation: In light to the resignation of Mr. Marjan Hussein Marjan, the church urges the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to exercise utmost caution, professionalism, and transparency in the process of identifying and appointing a suitable replacement.

Drought situation: The nation is experiencing insufficient rainfall, already impacting livelihoods, particularly in drought-prone areas. To save lives and protect livelihoods, the Church calls upon the National Government, County Governments, humanitarian agencies, NGOs, and Kenyans of goodwill to urgently collaborate in response efforts.

PCEA, through its Board for Social Responsibility will also be in the forefront to identify needs, mobilize and assist those who are needy.

Responsible Road use: The Church notes with concern the increasing cases of negligence among road users which have resulted in the loss of lives due to human error. It calls for responsible road use and action to address road safety.

Watch the Press statement on Kirk TV Kenya: https://www.youtube.com/live/_7ndIFdNvwY