Gachagua Calls for Stronger Church Engagement in Public Affairs

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called for closer consultation between religious leaders and institutions involved in making laws and public policies in Kenya.

Gachagua made the remarks in Boston, Massachusetts, where he met local clergy alongside Rev. Dorcas Rigathi and attended an indoor prayer service with members of the Kenyan community.

He said the church has an important role in providing moral guidance and contributing to discussions on issues affecting society beyond religious matters.

Gachagua said decisions on legislation, public policy and other issues involving questions of right and wrong should take into account perspectives grounded in spiritual and moral teaching. 

He argued that such engagement could help policymakers and communities address complex social issues while upholding values that guide public conduct.

Churches and other faith-based organisations have long participated in discussions on governance, social welfare and other matters of national interest in Kenya. 

Gachagua’s remarks called for greater consultation between religious institutions and those responsible for making decisions on public affairs. Such engagement would take place within Kenya’s constitutional framework and alongside the country’s diverse religious communities.

Gachagua’s visit to Boston is part of his wider activities in the United States, including meetings with members of the Kenyan diaspora and religious leaders. His meeting with clergy focused on the role of faith and moral guidance in public life.

The former deputy president said policymaking should consider not only legal and administrative issues but also the values that communities seek to uphold. His remarks therefore called for continued dialogue between religious institutions and those involved in shaping laws and public policies.