THE ROLE OF CHURCH IN STATE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS DURING THE MOI ERA, 1978-2002

Abstract

Purpose: The primary objective of this study was to determine the role of the mainline church in state and public affairs in Kenya between 1978 and 2002. This paper focuses on the contribution of the church in the transformation of the society that took place during this period.  This work seeks to contribute to the debates and understanding about the role of religion in the political process. The study thus brought together both theoretical and empirical links that intersected religion with the political agendas of the mainline churches and with the institutional politics and social processes of Kenya.

Methodology: Methodologically, the research drew upon information obtained from interviews, questionnaires, participant observations, religious sermons, newspaper reports, church magazines and internet blogs. The target population for this study was the mainland churches in Kenya and the role these churches played in state and public affairs in Kenya between 1978 and 2002.

Results: Despite the oppressive reaction by the government, religious leaders during the Moi era continued to preach against the high level political power monopoly by the ruling party, KANU. The most vocal church leaders in the crusade to democratize Kenya were the Catholic Bishop Ndingi Mwana-a Nzeki, Anglican Bishops Henry Okullu and Alexander Kipsang Muge, and Presbyterian Church Timothy Njoya among others. Under the banner of the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), the church was at the forefront in condemning the 1988 queue voting system not only as unbiblical but also to travesty to political justice.

Unique contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommended that the government should put in place laws that would involve the church in government matters. This can be done by introducing motions into parliament that advocate for the direct involvement of the church. This would involve laws which ensure that a portion of all members sitting in any committee represents the church. This can also be done by the introduction of electoral posts for church representatives just as there are positions for women representatives.  The study also recommends that amendments be made to the constitution to make a legal requirement that one of the nominated MPs must be from the church.