Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) has rubbished claims against him by Kikuyu MP and National Assembly Leader of Majority Kimani Ichung'wah of him being in favor of the Azimio coalition.
The incident arose due to Sapit's criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration, which elicited a strong response from Ichung'wah.
During a Citizen TV show, Sapit defended his position, noting that he is not affiliated with any political movement and has never actively campaigned for any candidate, as claimed by the Kikuyu MP.
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"We, as the Church, should not be intimidated by the sentiments expressed." I travel throughout the country to dioceses and understand exactly what Kenyans are going through. Sapit claimed, "Not from hearsay, but from being in their villages."
"I did not speak based on what I read in the newspapers or heard on the news." I talk from firsthand experience since I am on the ground."
The Archbishop referred to his remarks on September 28, 2023, stating that Kenyans are grappling with high living costs aggravated by hefty taxation.
"We believe it is critical for the government to recognise that Kenyans are already stretched to their limits." Sapit stated that "economic development cannot rely solely on taxation as its primary source of revenue."
He also accused the government of failing to live within its means, making it difficult for domestic and foreign companies to shop in the country.
Ichung'wah called out Sapit during a church service in Ainamoi Constituency on Sunday, October 1, alleging he made the remarks because of his opposition affiliation 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.