The Deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has warned against blanket condemnation of the church over the cult-like horrific Shakahola massacre in Kilifi county where tens of people were indoctrinated to starve to death in readiness to meet their maker.
While speaking today during the Episcopal Ordination and Installation of Reverend Cleophas Oseso Tuka, the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Nakuru, the DP said rogue pastors do not represent the whole church.
However, he lauded the church as an integral part of society and urged religious leaders to work together to eliminate the few who are misleading worshippers.
“Do not condemn all of the church for what happened on Kilifi Country. Even in church if you find two who are like that, they should bear individual responsibility (hata kanisa ukipata mmoja au wawili wenye wako hivyo) it is part of the society.” The DP said.
Gachagua who is always critical of the opposition also took the opportunity to laud the opposition, Azimio One Kenya coalition for agreeing to give the bipartisan approach a shot at addressing their grievances as opposed to staging destructive demonstrations.
“We need to find a peaceful way of settling our differences. President Ruto has been magnanimous when reached out by the opposition. Violence is unacceptable we welcome the Azimio team to the table for discussions but in the meantime we are busy . If it is within the law, if it is something that can be done we will do it. If not, if they tell us they want us to open the servers we don’t know. ” Gachagua said.
The DP urged the Church to support government’s effort in the fight against illicit brew through running mentorship programs targeting the youth.
He expressed willingness to work with the churches including the catholic church.
“We are willing to work with the church of Christ, we are willing to work with catholic church.” He added.
The deputy president has also urged Kenyans to support the government as they work to deliver on their mandate and work towards achieving the administration’s agenda.