Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) has responded to allegations made against him by Kikuyu MP and National Assembly Leader of Majority, Kimani Ichung’wah.
The controversy stems from Sapit’s criticism of Kenya Kwanza administration, which prompted a fiery response from Ichung’wah.
Speaking on Citizen TV’s JKLive show, Sapit clarified his position, stating that he is not aligned with any political faction and has never actively campaigned for any candidate, as alleged by Ichung’wah.
“For us as the Church, we should not be intimidated by sentiments that are being said. I go across the country to dioceses, so I know exactly what Kenyans are going through. Not from hearsay, but from being in their villages,” Sapit asserted.
“I did not speak from what I saw in the newspapers or from what the media announces. I speak from first-hand information because I am there in the grassroots.”
The Arch-bishop referred to his sentiments on September 28, 2023, where he said Kenyans are struggling with the high cost of living exacerbated by heavy taxation.
“We believe it’s imperative for the Government to appreciate the fact that Kenyan citizens are already stretched to their limits. Economic development cannot solely rely on taxation as its primary source of revenue,” Sapit said.
He also accused the Government of failing to live within its means, making it challenging for both local and foreign investors to establish businesses in the country.
In a church service at Ainamoi Constituency on Sunday, October 1, Ichung’wah called out Sapit, saying he made the remarks because of his affiliation with the opposition during the pre-election period.
“I listened to Ole Sapit with much respect when he said that our work is rhetoric. I want today to tell Ole Sapit that whenever we listen to him, we see the person he campaigned for; the riddles man (Raila),” said the Kikiyu MP.
“Don’t insult, don’t ridicule, because you know those who are responsible of bringing our country and economy to its knees are your friends and the people you supported,” Ichung’wah added.
The cost of living and the prices of staple goods has been on the rise in Kenya, with a slew of new taxes, and a declining currency.
A litre of petrol in Nairobi has surged to Ksh.211.64, while diesel now costs Ksh.200.99. The escalating prices have only intensified the concerns from Kenyan citizens.
