Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has issued an apology following a commotion that erupted at AIPCA Thika Cathedral during the Linda Mwananchi political tour in Thika, Kiambu County, on Sunday, June 14, 2026.

The incident occurred when Sifuna, alongside other leaders including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga, attempted to access the church premises as worshippers were already gathered for service.

The arrival of the delegation triggered tension between congregants, church officials, and security personnel stationed at the venue.

Church service disrupted

A brief disorder at the entrance of the church was reported as leaders sought entry, with some congregants expressing concern over disruption of ongoing worship activities when all attention turned to Sifuna, with some occupants chanting his name in the middle of the church service.

Security officers were forced to intervene to restore order, as sections of the congregation reacted to the heightened activity around the church compound.

Despite the commotion, the service proceeded after calm was restored.

Sifuna issues an apology from the pulpit

Addressing the congregation later, Sifuna expressed regret over the disruption, emphasising the importance of respecting places of worship.

He apologised for the inconvenience caused, noting that the incident should not have interfered with the service.

Sifuna also used the opportunity to call for discipline and respect among political supporters and attendees, urging that political activity should never overshadow religious gatherings.

He further warned against any attempts to influence or pressure leaders, insisting that integrity and respect must guide public life.

“Bishop amesema mkijaribu kiniunua juu leo mnaniletea laana. Nataka niombe nizungumze tu, na ukisikia kupiga kelele, meza mate. Kelele tutapiga huko nje, kwa heshima ya madhabahu… Bishop nataka niombe msamaha kwa ile purukushani kidogo ambayo ilikuwa hapa wakati ambapo tuliingia. Tuliingia kama ibaada imeanza na kwa hayo mengi, wengine walikuwa hata wakipewa instructions hawafuati,” he said.

“Lakini tunataka tusema wanalinda mwananchi ni watu wa nidhamu na hiyo nidhamu ndio itatufikisha mahali ambapo tunataka tufike. Nimeona wengine hata wanaingia na wanaanza kusumbua wamama wa women’s council ambao wako hapa. Tuwapee heshima na nafasi yao katika Kanisa. Kwa hayo mengi, nasema poleni sana.“

The senator stressed that churches should remain sacred spaces free from political tension or disorder, adding that leaders must ensure proper coordination before visiting religious venues.

He acknowledged that some individuals may have acted without proper instructions, contributing to the confusion at the entrance.

The Thika incident occurred during the ongoing Linda Mwananchi movement tour, which has been mobilising support across different regions ahead of heightened political activity expected in the 2027 election cycle.

The tour has drawn several prominent opposition-aligned leaders and has been marked by large public gatherings across various counties.