By Edna-UCLIQ
NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 6 – President William Ruto has distanced himself from the challenges facing Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
This follows an impeachment motion tabled by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse.
Despite pressure from Gachagua’s allies for intervention, Ruto remained silent on the issue. Attending a church service at AIC Milimani in Nairobi, he avoided discussions on the impeachment.
Ruto reaffirmed that his administration would not impose regulations on religious activities in Kenya. He emphasized the constitutional guarantee of freedom of worship.
“Any reforms to regulate religious institutions should come from the institutions themselves,” Ruto stated, referencing a recommendation from the Presidential Taskforce led by Rev. Mutava Musyimi.
The task force aims to provide a policy framework for addressing religious extremism and sects. It was established in response to gaps identified in the current legal framework.
“I urge those with ideas to allow religious leaders to define their self-regulation,” Ruto said. He highlighted the need for stakeholders to respect the Constitution in proposing policies.
The Mutava-led task force was formed in May 2023 after mass graves were discovered in Shakahola Forest.
These graves contained the bodies of followers of Pastor Paul Mackenzie of the Good News International Church.
Mackenzie is accused of leading people to starve themselves to death. “The Kenyan Constitution is explicit, and there will be no compromise on freedom of worship,” Ruto affirmed.
The President assured that his government would protect freedom of worship. He rejected any legislative efforts that might restrict religious practices in Kenya.
“We will defend freedom of worship without compromise,” Ruto declared. This comes amid the introduction of a proposed bill aimed at regulating religious organizations.
