Gospel musician and politician Reuben Kigame has issued a strong warning to Kenyan church leaders over the increasing involvement of politicians in religious gatherings, describing it as “disgusting” and spiritually corrosive.
In a statement shared on X, Kigame criticized the practice of politicians using church platforms for personal gain, saying worshippers are deprived of genuine spiritual nourishment.
“It is disgusting to make your way to a service expecting spiritual nourishment and edification, only to be greeted by politicians in their costumes chanting their slogans or flashing huge bundles of money,” he said.
Kigame specifically targeted the practice of church leaders accepting money in exchange for political endorsement, a phenomenon he claims has persisted across recent years.
He recalled the period in 2022 when certain clergy were reportedly visiting President William Ruto’s Karen residence, leaving with “brown envelopes carrying millions” after offering political support.
“The venue has shifted to State House Nairobi where another attempt to buy the church voice is in progress,” Kigame added.
He condemned any church leader who aligns with a government accused of human rights violations, including abduction, torture, and killings of young people, labeling such leaders as “rogue” and warning against complicity.
“Anyone who receives money as a church leader from the same government receives blood money,” he emphasized.
Kigame’s statement comes amid growing public debate about the intersection of politics and faith in Kenya, with critics arguing that politicians exploiting church platforms undermine both spiritual integrity and democratic values.
His comments also echo broader concerns about the use of financial incentives to influence church messaging and sway congregations toward political loyalty.
By calling out both political leaders and complicit clergy, Kigame has reignited discussions about the ethical boundaries between religious institutions and state actors.