The Anglican Church of Kenya has raised alarm over the country’s worsening economic conditions, warning that many households are being “pushed to the wall” as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a New Year service at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi, Anglican Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit said corruption and the high cost of living continue to weaken Kenya’s economy, squeezing families and businesses.
“While some indicators appear stable, many households are under severe pressure. High taxation, high interest rates, the cost of electricity, and relentless borrowing are squeezing families and businesses alike. Corruption continues to weaken our economic foundation,” Ole Sapit said.
The archbishop also voiced concern over what he described as the erosion of constitutional order, urging the church and all Kenyans to safeguard the Constitution.
“Attentiveness to God requires moral clarity about stewardship, accountability, and justice. It means refusing to normalise the weakening of our institutions when constitutional safeguards are bypassed, when oversight bodies are sidelined, and when public finance is moved outside legal control. The nation is put at risk,” he said.
Ole Sapit warned that Kenya is entering a potentially divisive political season with the next General Election less than two years away. He called for tolerance, unity, and meaningful engagement across political and social divides.
“To be attentive to God’s voice in this season means standing for Kenya itself, for what is right, just, and righteous, even when that stance is inconvenient. It means paying serious attention to young people. Ours is one of the youngest nations on earth, yet many of our youth feel excluded from economic opportunities, meaningful participation, and national decision-making,” he said.
The archbishop also defended the church’s role in national discourse, rejecting any attempts by the state to control religious institutions.
“Faith must never be controlled by the state. Even as crime is addressed through the law, the church stands for self-regulation, accountability and the dignity of belief,” Ole Sapit said.
Similarly, at the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi, Archbishop Philip Anyolo called on Kenyans to uphold peace, love, and unity amid a politically charged environment.
Clergy in Machakos and Busia counties echoed these messages, urging citizens to resist political manipulation and practice tolerance as political activities intensify.
