The United Opposition has criticized President William Ruto for ignoring concerns raised by the Church, describing clergy as the voice of the Kenyan people. Opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, and Fred Matiang’i, likened the President’s leadership style to that of Pharaoh in the Bible.
Speaking at the ordination ceremony of Rev. Dorcas Rigathi at her Wamunyoro residence in Nyeri, the leaders called for prayers for the nation while highlighting what they described as the President’s high-handed approach to governance.
Kalonzo Musyoka referenced statements by religious leaders, saying, “I saw the statement by the Anglican Bishop of Kisumu, I have seen the Catholic bishops… Are you not reminded of the spirit of Pharaoh, who was refusing that the children of Israel would get out of captivity?”
Matiang’i emphasized the importance of listening to the clergy, stating, “Please listen to the religious leaders of our country. They are speaking on behalf of our people and articulating their pain, aspirations, and wishes.”
Wamalwa added, “When you’re called to be the President of the Republic of Kenya, you must hold that office with honor and dignity.” He urged the nation’s leaders to heed the voices of ordained men and women of God.
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti also joined the call, saying, “Kanisa mtuombee, we need your prayers. Hapa hatutaki Mungu atume malaika, tunataka akuje yeye mwenyewe.”
The event celebrated Rev. Dorcas Rigathi for her work empowering widows, supporting the boy child, and helping the destitute. She was also praised for standing by her husband, opposition co-principal Rigathi Gachagua, during his political challenges.
Gachagua expressed gratitude, stating, “We remember good deeds. Those who have been kind to us, should an occasion arise in the future that you desire our kindness, we will be available.”
The ceremony underscored the opposition’s plea for President Ruto to engage with the Church and heed its guidance, seen as a reflection of the people’s voice and conscience in Kenya.
