Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has appealed to Pope Leo XIV to pray for Kenya’s stability and leadership, using the pontiff’s ongoing apostolic visit to Africa to call for peace and unity back home while also expressing hope for closer ties with the Vatican.
In a letter shared on his X account on Thursday, Kalonzo welcomed the Pope’s maiden visit to the continent, describing it as a moment of “profound joy and deep spiritual solidarity” for Africa. He said the visit carries deep meaning for a region he described as rich in faith, resilience and hope.
The Pope began his 10-day African tour on April 13, 2026, covering Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea. The trip, his first to the continent, is focused on peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue and addressing governance and social challenges.
Kalonzo praised the Pope’s message, saying it reflects values that resonate across Africa and beyond.
“We draw deep inspiration from Your Holiness’s steadfast championship of peace, the transcendent dignity of every human person, and the family as the first and most vital school of virtue and civic life,” he said.
He noted that although Kenya is not part of the current itinerary, the country maintains a strong bond with the Holy See and remains hopeful of hosting the Pope in the future.
“We acknowledge that Kenya holds a place of enduring warmth for the Holy See, and we trust in the providence of God that the day shall come when we are once again privileged to receive you as our most honoured guest,” he said.
In his message, Kalonzo rooted his appeal in Christian teaching, citing a Latin phrase often linked to Catholic tradition.
“Ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est,” he stated, affirming that where charity and love exist, there is God.
He said the Pope’s presence in Africa reflects the Church’s continued commitment to unity, compassion and service to humanity, adding that such values are key in addressing the continent’s challenges.
At the same time, Kalonzo used the opportunity to seek prayers for Kenya, calling for guidance in leadership and governance.
“I humbly beseech Your Holiness to intercede in prayer on our behalf, that Kenya may be blessed with lasting peace, social harmony, and leaders who govern not for themselves, but for the common good of all our people,” he said.
He added that Kenya stands in solidarity with the Pope’s mission, saying the country shares in the values of peace, justice and service promoted by the Catholic Church.
“We walk with you in prayer and in solidarity,” he concluded.
Kalonzo’s message places Kenya within a wider reflection on the role of faith in leadership, linking spiritual guidance to political stability and ethical governance.
His remarks come at a time when engagement between political leaders and global religious institutions continues to shape conversations around peace, governance and social development across Africa.
The statement also highlights Kenya’s long-standing relationship with the Catholic Church, which has played a role in civic education, mediation and community initiatives over the years.
While the Pope’s current visit does not include Kenya, Kalonzo’s message points to expectations for future engagement, with leaders looking to strengthen both diplomatic and spiritual ties with the Vatican.
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