The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has strongly condemned politicians engaging in early campaigns for the 2027 general elections, warning that the premature political activities are fueling hate speech, division, and potential violence.
In a statement released by its Kilifi branch, the Council expressed deep concern that some leaders and aspirants have abandoned governance and service delivery to focus on electioneering nearly two years before the polls.
“Quite regrettably, politicians and aspirants have embarked on early campaigns for the 2027 general elections despite them being two years away,” the statement read.
“Worse still, these campaigns are riddled with hate speech, radicalisation, and other forms of public incitement. We strongly condemn these individuals who are setting up the nation for violence and chaos.”
The Church leaders urged Kenyans to reject divisive rhetoric and refuse to be used by politicians to stir ethnic or political animosity.
“We call upon Kenyans to refuse to listen or follow anyone who provokes them against other people,” the Council said, stressing the need for peace, unity, and tolerance ahead of the next election cycle.
The NCCK also faulted law enforcement agencies for laxity in enforcing the law, saying corruption and complacency have weakened accountability.
“The people of Kenya are now realising the true meaning of Proverbs 22:7 — the rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a servant to the lender,” the statement added.
The Council further criticised Members of Parliament for spending more time politicking at funerals instead of focusing on legislative duties.
“We demand that Members of Parliament from our counties stop speaking at burials and instead go to Parliament and revoke the oppressive laws passed in recent times,” NCCK said. “The citizens are watching and will remember this when the elections come.”
The Church also called for inclusivity and active citizen participation in all democratic processes, including by-elections.
“We are asking for good governance, inclusion, and participation. We want to see women, men, and our youth fully involved in the democratic process,” the statement urged.
The warning comes amid growing political activity across the country, with various leaders already holding rallies and making 2027 campaign pronouncements despite official campaigns being years away.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has yet to issue any formal guidelines on early campaigns, but religious and civil society groups have increasingly raised concerns over the rising political temperatures.
