DP Kindiki Promises Jobs to Pastors and Their Dependents

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has said that the government will support families of members of the clergy to get a chance to serve in various positions in public service.

 

Speaking to members of the clergy on Tuesday, April 15, in Nairobi, the DP said that the government will collaborate with the church leadership to support and ensure that families and dependants of 'some' members of the clergy get a chance to serve the country in various capacities as a way to appreciate and honour their dedication in praying and advocating for the people of Kenya.

 

"I am aware that because the men of God spend the time praying and thinking about other people, many times they do not have time to pray and think about themselves and their families, and this is from my own experience because I grew up in a pastor's family," he said.

 

"And because of that, through your leadership, we want to commit to you that we will be able to support some of you who have children and people whom you want to support to find opportunities to serve their country in various capacities," he added.

Additionally, Kindiki has affirmed that the government will be at the forefront in helping churches which lack and are struggling to acquire title deeds for their land and properties get legitimate title deeds. 

 

"The government, together with your leadership, will be able to resolve as many of the issues that are affecting churches that are struggling to get title deeds," he said.

 

Kindiki has further assured that the government will continue collaborating with the church in the battle against social evils, including crime and graft.

 

"Our constitution says that Kenya is a democratic nation, and so the leadership of the church is different from that of the country; their vision, objectives, and priorities are completely aligned. We see the church as a companion and as a complementary institution that helps in the struggle to better the lives of Kenyans," he said.

 

In the recent past, the church has put the government, especially government officials, under heavy scrutiny, with the clergy stressing that politicians should avoid engaging churches in politics.

 

In a statement on Wednesday, April 9, the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) said that religious leaders should refrain from supporting or opposing political leaders in their line of duty and should instead remain objective and treat everyone the same.

 

Earlier this month, on April 3, the Catholic Diocese of Malindi Bishop Willybard Lagho banned all politicians from receiving any special treatment or addressing the congregants during Holy Mass.