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An Open Letter to the Church in Kenya in the Wake of Gen Z Protests
By Dr Moses Mwangi
In these tumultuous times, as the youth of our nation take to the streets to voice their grievances, it is imperative that the Church re-examines its role in society. The recent Gen Z protests have laid bare the frustration and discontent among our young people. They demand justice, transparency, and accountability. As the moral compass of our society, the Church must rise to the occasion and fulfill its divine mandate. I urge you to consider the following points:
Solomonic Wisdom The Church must stand as the voice of reason, offering and guiding genuine conversation among Gen Z, the general public, and the government. It is critical that Church leaders refrain from taking a hard stance in political disputes. The Church’s role is to provide godly wisdom and counsel anchored in God’s Word, essential for bridging divides and fostering understanding. By remaining truthful and maintaining an attitude of care and concern for justice and good governance, the Church can effectively mediate and provide constructive solutions to the challenges we face.
Agents of Peace Now more than ever, the Church should be a beacon of hope. In the face of escalating tensions, the Church’s voice should call for calm and advocate for peaceful resolutions. The teachings of Christ emphasize justice, peace, love, and reconciliation. As church leaders, our influence can help de-escalate conflicts and promote dialogue over confrontation. Christ said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Our nation desperately needs peace now more than ever before. Can the Church rise to the occasion?
A Safe Haven for Whistleblowers The Church should be a sanctuary for those who speak out against injustice and corruption. Whistleblowers, who often face significant risks, need a safe space where they can be heard and protected. By offering this refuge, the Church can play a pivotal role in uncovering and addressing corruption and wrongdoing in our society.
Calling Out Corrupt Leaders The Church must not shy away from its prophetic role of speaking truth to power. It is disheartening to see how the Church has, in recent times, aligned itself with corrupt leaders, inviting them repeatedly to grace fundraisers. This cozy relationship has compromised the Church’s ability to speak out against corruption. The proceeds of corruption have found a haven in the Church, leading to a troubling silence on issues that matter most to the people. It is time for the Church to reclaim its prophetic voice and call out corruption wherever it is found.
Chief Reconciliation Agent In a divided nation, the Church should be at the forefront of reconciliation efforts. The Church’s unique position allows it to mediate between conflicting parties, foster forgiveness, and promote unity. The power of reconciliation is immense, and the Church must harness this power to heal our fractured nation.
It is with a heavy heart that I note how the Church has been compromised by monetary and non-monetary donations from corrupt leaders. These donations have blinded many religious leaders to the atrocities committed by these same individuals. The Church has a sacred duty to remain vigilant and untainted by the allure of material gain.
The time has come for the Church to help fix this nation with sincerity and genuineness. Let us put an end to the unholy alliances that have hindered our progress. Church leaders should stop flocking to the State House for personal gains and instead focus on guiding and counseling the president and other leaders during this critical period. The stability of our nation hangs in the balance, and the Church must rise to its calling.
Let us remember the words of Proverbs 31:8-9: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” May the Church in Kenya stand firm in our faith, uphold justice, and be the moral compass that guides our nation to a brighter future.
