- The Archbishop insisted that the Church is always open to all members of the public.
- He regretted any misunderstanding.
Image: FILE
Holy Family Basilica has now clarified why protesters in the anti-Finance Bill, 2024 demonstrations were denied entry during the confrontation with the police.
In a statement dated June 21, the Church said that the Church hosts a school and it is the responsibility of their staff to ensure the safety of children.
Metropolitan Archbishop of Nairobi Rev. Philip Anyolo said it was also to protect the students, adding that they stand in solidarity with all Kenyans who are working towards having a better future.
"The compound hosts a school, and our personnel consistently maintain the safety of the young children. The Church is also responsible for ensuring a duty of care for the young ones in the Holy Family Minor Basilica Catholic Parochial School," Anyolo said.
"We appreciate your understanding and stand in solidarity with all who work towards a better future for all Kenyans."
The Archbishop insisted that the Church is always open to all members of the public.
He regretted any misunderstanding.
"We wish to affirm that the Holy Family Minor Basilica will always endeavour to be a sanctuary for all people of God, remaining open to the public," he said.
"We regret any misunderstanding following the current concerns about Finance Bill, 2024 and will continue to strive to be a sanctuary of worship."
The statement followed complaints by a section of social media users who claimed that the Church denied protesting Kenyans entry, as police lobbed tear gas to disperse them.
They claimed that while the Jamia Mosque in the Nairobi CBD allowed protesters to enter as police came after them, the Holy Family Basilica did not.