Kenyan Members of Parliament came together across party lines to seek divine intervention against the rising tide of social media abuse that has deeply affected the nation’s peace and unity. The solemn occasion took place at the National Prayer Breakfast held at Safari Park, where leaders from different political backgrounds, including opposition lawmakers, gathered to pray for forgiveness and healing.
The event, themed “Rise and Rebuild,” was introduced by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who emphasized the need for national awakening and collective responsibility. “The National Prayer Breakfast has evolved into more than just an annual tradition. This year’s prayer breakfast calls upon all of us, as both leaders and citizens, to awaken,” he said, setting a hopeful tone for the day.
Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi was particularly direct in her prayer, addressing the destructive influence of social media on the youth and the country’s social fabric. “Our youth are hopeless, and we pray that the spirit of social media running our country is dealt with. May we stand for what is best for our nation and future generations,” Elachi prayed. She went further to confess on behalf of legislators, pledging courage to confront the challenges posed by toxic online behavior. “Father, forgive us,” she implored.
The prayers extended beyond Kenya’s borders, with Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana petitioning for peace and guidance in the African continent. Highlighting the ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mungatana asked God to give leaders wisdom and the Holy Spirit’s guidance to end the displacement of two million people.
Legal expert Martin Oloo, Associate Dean at Daystar School of Law, reflected on the event, acknowledging that the theme “Rise and Rebuild” recognizes existing challenges and the urgent need for national healing.
President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto honored the occasion with their presence, reinforcing the gravity of this sacred annual ritual where the nation humbly seeks God’s mercy and forgiveness in troubled times. The collective prayers demonstrated a unified commitment to peace, healing, and the restoration of Kenya’s social harmony amidst growing online tensions.
