Nairobi: Catholic priests serving in the Archdiocese of Nairobi have been urged to take a leading role in promoting peace and unity as Kenya moves towards the 2027 general elections.
The call was made during celebrations marking the World Day for Consecrated Life, where priests were reminded of their responsibility to guide the faithful with words and actions that heal divisions and encourage harmony in society.
Addressing fellow clergy, Fr Peter Kaigwa, who serves as vice chairperson of the priests council in the Nairobi Archdiocese, said priests are called to be messengers of peace, especially at a time when political activity is beginning to intensify across the country. He noted that the Church has a duty to stand with all people, including those at the margins, and to offer hope rooted in the Gospel.
Church leaders expressed concern about early political campaigns, rising political rhetoric, and the risk of ethnic divisions taking shape long before the elections scheduled for August 2027. They warned that such trends could threaten peaceful coexistence if not addressed early through dialogue and moral leadership.
The appeal in Nairobi reflects a wider message from the Catholic Church in Kenya. The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops has in recent months repeatedly called on political leaders to act responsibly, avoid premature campaigning, and place the common good above personal or party interests. The bishops have also encouraged young people to engage positively in the democratic process and to resist manipulation and violence.
As the country prepares for the next electoral cycle, Catholic leaders say priests are uniquely placed to help shape attitudes at the grassroots level through preaching, counselling, and community outreach. They have encouraged clergy to remain firm voices for peace, justice, and national unity, reminding Kenyans that peaceful elections begin with respectful words and actions long before polling day.