Gachagua warns of a government plot to use chiefs to monitor church sermons

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has alleged a government scheme to use chiefs to monitor church sermons across the country.

Gachagua, a former administrator, claimed that chiefs and their assistants are being directed by unnamed individuals to oversee the content of clergy sermons. He further alleged that the state has deployed members of the administration unit to churches every weekend to intimidate bishops and preachers.

Speaking during a church service in Kajiado on Sunday, Gachagua condemned the alleged move, calling it retrogressive and a violation of the constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of speech and worship.

“I understand that chiefs are being sent to churches to monitor what bishops are preaching. Chiefs that is not your responsibility. Do not allow yourselves to be misused,” he said. “If you want to attend church, come and listen to the sermons to find salvation and join the faith. Let us respect the freedom of worship and allow the church to operate without interference.”

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His remarks follow reports of a scheme to block him from attending a church service in Nairobi a week earlier. However, Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin refuted these claims, asserting that the DCI operates strictly within the confines of the law. Amin reiterated the unit’s commitment to respecting the autonomy of religious institutions and refraining from interference with individual liberties.

Gachagua, accompanied by several allies, defended the church against what he described as unwarranted political attacks. He emphasized that clergy are guided by the Holy Spirit and are adequately equipped to preach to their congregations.

“Let us respect the freedom of worship and speech within places of worship,” he urged. “Churches should be left to regulate themselves. The rest of us should come, listen to the sermon, enjoy praise and worship, give our offerings, and leave.”

The former Deputy President warned that any interference with church activities would be strongly opposed, as it threatens fundamental freedoms.

“These men of God know how to read and interpret the Bible as inspired by God. Let us allow them to do their work without undue pressure,” he concluded.