Opiyo Wandayi, John Mbadi On the Spot as Bishop Declares Their Tenure a Failure to Nyanza

In a sharply worded homily that has ignited significant political discourse, Anglican Bishop Charles Ong’injo delivered a public rebuke of President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of overseeing a period of intense repression and failing to address mounting economic hardships.

ALSO READ: Tanzanian Businesswoman Faces Death Penalty Over Viral Dance Challenge Video

The Bishop’s remarks were made on November 8 during a funeral service in Kisumu, a stronghold of the political opposition. A video of his sermon was subsequently shared widely across social media platforms, drawing support from a range of politicians and activists.

Bishop Ong’injo leveled grave allegations against the government, stating that the country has witnessed “unprecedented repression” under the current leadership. He provided a specific figure, asserting that there have been 82 abductions since June 2024, alongside alleged killings. The claims reference a wave of mysterious disappearances of individuals, predominantly young protesters involved in recent anti-government demonstrations, which human rights organizations have previously documented.

“Today, we are living in fear,” Bishop Ong’injo declared from the pulpit. “The repression we are witnessing is unprecedented. We have recorded 82 abductions since June and our young people are being killed. This must stop.”

Linking state actions to broader societal distress, the Bishop went a step further by suggesting a connection between government policies and personal tragedy. He questioned whether the recent death of a prominent local figure, engineer Hannington Raburu Juma, could be attributed to the “stresses in our society” inflicted by the current political and economic climate.

The sermon also addressed growing discontent within the Nyanza region regarding representation in government. Despite the appointment of several high-profile Luo officials to President Ruto’s cabinet, including Opiyo Wandayi and John Mbadi, Bishop Ong’injo directly challenged their efficacy.

“What benefits has the Nyanza community reaped from the Luo Cabinet Secretaries in this government?” he asked the congregation, implying that their presence has not translated into tangible gains for their constituents. This sentiment echoes a broader debate over the role of regional representatives in a national government.

The viral video of the Bishop’s critique has been met with applause from sections of the political class and civil society. Commentators have praised his “boldness” and willingness to speak truth to power, with many sharing the clip alongside messages of solidarity.

As of the time of reporting, State House has not issued an official response to the Bishop’s allegations. The remarks from a senior figure in the Anglican Church are likely to intensify pressure on the administration to address the serious accusations of human rights abuses and to respond to the deepening economic anxieties felt by many Kenyans.

Follow Us X