The Catholic Diocese of Embu has issued new pastoral guidelines regulating the participation of politicians in churches and liturgical celebrations, with immediate effect.
The directive, issued by Bishop Peter Kimani, is said to be in harmony with the 2026 guidance of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB). It seeks to safeguard the sanctity of worship, promote unity and maintain peace within the Church and the wider community.
Under the new guidelines, all people of goodwill, including politicians, remain welcome to attend Holy Mass and other liturgical celebrations as members of the Christian faithful. However, politicians attending church are expected to worship with respect and solemnity.
The directive specifically prohibits politicians and their representatives from addressing congregations during or after Holy Mass or during liturgical services, whether such services are held inside or outside the church. The Bishop noted that a brief acknowledgement by the presiding minister would be sufficient where necessary.
The Diocese has also directed that churches and church compounds should not be used as venues for political campaigns, mobilization or political debates.
In addition, priests, religious and pastoral agents have been urged to remain non-partisan in the exercise of their pastoral ministry and to serve all members of the faithful without political favoritism.
The faithful have been encouraged to pray for all leaders and to participate responsibly in civic affairs, while avoiding activities that could threaten their faith or public peace.
Bishop Kimani called on the clergy, religious, pastoral agents and faithful to implement the directive faithfully and with pastoral charity.
The Bishop further urged the people of the Diocese to promote unity, love and the rule of law, particularly as the Church carries out its pastoral mission among people of different faiths, tribes and cultures.
The directive comes as the Catholic Church continues to emphasize responsible civic engagement while seeking to keep places of worship free from partisan political activities.
