The church should have a harmonious relationship with the state, Siaya Governor James Orengo has said.

While Kenya is a secular state, he said, both institutions must play complementary roles to serve the public.

The government should not coerce the church into supporting its agenda, as both entities must are independent, Orengo said at a church in Kisumu.

He urged the church to confidently claim its democratic space, uphold the spiritual doctrines of truth and non-violence, and hold the government accountable for promoting the rule of law, justice, and equity.

Orengo’s remarks came as tensions between the church and the state are on the rise, particularly concerning the government’s handling of national issues.

Living costs

Recently, the Catholic bishops, the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), and the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) were vocal in demanding greater accountability from the Kenya Kwanza administration.

For example, in recent months, Catholic clerics have issued public statements calling on the government to address the high cost of living and ensure fair distribution of resources.

They expressed concerns about the economic hardships ordinary Kenyans are facing and demanded that the administration implement policies that prioritise the welfare of the public over partisan interests.

Similarly, the NCCK has criticised the government’s handling of corruption scandals and its failure to uphold transparency and accountability, calling on President William Ruto’s administration to take concrete steps to tackle graft.

Furthermore, ACK leaders have been outspoken on issues related to the erosion of democratic freedoms and the independence of institutions.