Rt. Rev. Maj. (Rtd.) Samson Gachathi, the Anglican Bishop of Nyahururu. Photo/Home News
By Wanjohi Nderitu/Home News
Neither the citizens nor the government should use “ink of blood” to express themselves, no matter how urgent the message may be, the Rt. Rev. Maj. (Rtd.) Samson Gachathi, the Anglican Bishop of Nyahururu, has cautioned.
Bishop Gachathi spoke vehemently against all forms of brutality, whether from protestors or law enforcement.
“It is painful and unacceptable that some Gen Z protestors were severely beaten by law enforcement officers, and in other instances, police officers were injured and attacked by citizens,” he stated. “Both actions are wrong and must be condemned. Violence, regardless of who perpetrates it, cannot be the way forward for Kenya.”
He was delivering a keynote address during the Diocesan Thanksgiving Day service on Sunday, June 29, at Christ the King Cathedral Church in Nyahururu.
The message resonated deeply with the challenges facing the nation amid widespread protests by the youth over economic hardships, governance issues, and a growing sense of despair and brutality from the police while dealing with the protestors.
“No message, however urgent, should be written in blood,” he declared in what became the most quoted line of his message, reverberating across social media and national news.
While acknowledging the frustrations leading to protests, the bishop urged the youth, often referred to as Gen Z, to express their concerns peacefully. In a striking show of solidarity with Kenya’s youth, Bishop Gachathi praised their courage and commitment.
“These young people have shown boldness, passion, and clarity. They deserve to be heard, not dismissed. They are the present and future of this nation,” he affirmed.
However, he urged the youth to carry their message through peaceful and lawful means, reminding them that protest need not be synonymous with destruction. He underscored the necessity for respectful dialogue and lawful protest.
He did not shy away from condemning the violence that has marred some demonstrations.
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“Lives have been lost, young lives full of potential, brutally cut short… We mourn every death,” he lamented, extending condolences to the families affected by the recent unrest.
The Bishop’s voice turned grave as he addressed the loss of life and the injuries sustained during the unrest, including within his own diocesan territory.
“We mourn every death, including those within Nyandarua and Laikipia. We also grieve the destruction of both public and private property, which has undermined livelihoods and crippled services,” he said, his tone echoing national sorrow.
He called for prayers and swift recovery for those hospitalized, emphasizing that their pain is “our shared burden.”
In a balanced and courageous stance, Bishop Gachathi denounced not only the violent acts committed by protestors but also the heavy-handed responses by law enforcement.
“It is painful and unacceptable that some Gen Z protestors were severely beaten by law enforcement officers, and in other instances, police officers were injured and attacked by citizens. Both actions are wrong and must be condemned.”
To leaders: Rise above power games
Turning to Kenya’s political class, Bishop Gachathi issued a strong appeal for unity and servant leadership.
“Let every leader rise above personal ambition and serve the people with integrity and compassion. Kenyans do not fear leaders working together; they only fear being used and abandoned in the process,” he cautioned.
craving the DCP ticket, proceed to present their contributions to the Bishop. They were so many Gachagua wondered. The current one is Irene Wachuka. Photo/Home News
He emphasized that dialogue, not power struggles, was what the country urgently needs. He appealed to political leaders to engage in constructive dialogue for the common good and to prioritize the welfare of the citizens over selfish power games.
He also called on the government to address pressing economic issues, stating, “The cost of living is unbearable for many families. Young people are unemployed. Parents cannot pay school fees.” He urged the government to act swiftly in addressing these challenges facing ordinary Kenyans.
Bishop Gachathi made an impassioned call for healing and national introspection.
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“Kenya is not beyond healing. Let us come together, speak with one another, listen to one another, and build the Kenya that God desires for all His people,” he urged.
“May the Lord heal our land. May the souls of those who died rest in peace. May quick recovery be granted to the injured. And may wisdom, restraint, and compassion lead us forward.”
Bishop Gachathi reaffirmed the church’s commitment to peace, justice, and reconciliation, declaring churches as sanctuaries for prayer and healing.
“We invite all stakeholders—youth, leaders, civil society, and security agencies—to choose peace and responsibility,” he urged.
Thanksgiving, fundraising, and fellowship
The thanksgiving service also doubled as a fundraiser to complete the cathedral. The target of Sh22 million was exceeded by more than Sh6 million.
Politicians present were restricted by the bishop to only greet the congregation briefly and present their contributions. They included Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu, his Nyandarua counterpart Kiarie Badilisha, Senators John Methu and John Nyutu, and leaders from different parts of the Mt. Kenya region. Also present were aspirant MCAs, MPs, Senators, and Women Representatives.
The majestic cathedral was filled to the brim, mainly by Anglicans from all the parishes in the diocese. The homily was delivered by Bishop Emeritus Charles Gaikia. The master of ceremony was Provost Ngenye.
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