Nominated senator Tabitha Mutinda addressing journalists on matters of national interest and strengthening collaboration between faith-based institutions and women leaders at All Saints Cathedral, Nairobi, on June 12, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY
A section of religious leaders in Nairobi County has called for peace, national unity and prayers ahead of the 2027 General Election.
This is even as they endorsed Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda for the Nairobi Woman Representative seat in the next polls.
The endorsement by pastors and church leaders from various
congregations across the city is expected to bolster Mutinda’s bid in what is
shaping up to be a highly competitive race to succeed outgoing Woman
Representative Esther Passaris.
Speaking during a prayer session held at All Saints
Cathedral in Nairobi on Friday, the clergy reaffirmed their commitment to
promoting peace and cohesion as political activities gather momentum ahead of
the t elections.
The religious leaders, led by Bishop Richard Onwong’a of
Faith International Church and Pastor William Mwangangi of Jesus Manifestation
Church, said the church has a critical role to play in fostering peace and
responsible leadership.
“As servants of God, we recognise the important role of the
church in promoting peace, unity, reconciliation and moral leadership in
society,” the clergy said in a joint statement.
“We therefore reaffirm our commitment to continue praying
for our country, Kenya, that God may preserve the peace we enjoy, strengthen
national unity and guide our leaders and citizens alike.”
The leaders pledged to mobilise prayers across their
churches to encourage peaceful elections, responsible leadership and national
unity.
They also condemned divisive politics, hate speech and
intolerance that often characterise election periods, urging leaders and
citizens to embrace dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence before,
during and after the elections.
“As pastors and spiritual leaders, we believe Kenya’s future
is bright when we remain united in purpose, steadfast in prayer and committed
to the values of justice, peace, integrity and service to humanity,” they said.
The prayers and calls for peace come at a time of heightened
political activity as leaders position themselves for the 2027 contest.
Political camps have intensified grassroots mobilisation and public engagements
in efforts to consolidate support bases across the country.
In a significant political statement, the clergy publicly
endorsed Mutinda’s candidature, describing her as a leader who has demonstrated
dedication and commitment to public service.
“We have witnessed her leadership, her dedication to public
service, her commitment to community development and the diligent execution of
her legislative responsibilities,” the leaders said.
According to the clergy, Mutinda has consistently
demonstrated compassion and a genuine desire to improve the lives of Nairobi
residents through her service.
The race for the Nairobi Woman Representative seat is
already attracting interest from several prominent politicians. Former
nominated senator Millicent Omanga and nominated senator Karen Nyamu have
declared their interest in the position.
Passaris has indicated that she will not seek re-election,
opening the field for a fierce contest among aspirants seeking to inherit one
of Nairobi’s most influential elective seats.
Mutinda, who is expected to seek the seat on a UDA ticket,
expressed gratitude for the endorsement and prayers from the clergy.
“Churches of Nairobi have come together to pray for me and
give me their blessings. I thank you so much,” she said.
The senator urged religious leaders to continue praying for
peace, schools and young people, saying the country faces significant social
challenges that require collective intervention.
“Churches and pastors, continue praying for our schools. A
lot is happening. Pray for our generation. Pray for peace,” she said.
She also called on Kenyans planning to mark the June 25 Gen
Z anniversary to do so peacefully and responsibly while reflecting on the
country's progress and challenges.
