Former Mukurweini MP Kabando Wa Kabando has launched a scathing attack on AIPCA Gatundu North Bishop Simon Karatu, accusing the cleric of desecrating the altar by turning a Sunday service into a political loyalty pledge for President William Ruto.

The critique follows a highly charged service at the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) in Karure, Kiambu County, on Sunday. In a move that has sparked fresh debate on the separation of church and state, Bishop Karatu publicly assured the Head of State that the Mt Kenya region would vote for him “very early in the morning” in 2027, dismissing fears of a voter revolt following the 2024 impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

‘Sanctity for Sale’

Kabando, a consistent critic of what he terms “state capture of the church,” did not mince his words. In a statement issued Monday morning, he termed the Bishop’s declaration a “betrayal of the flock” and a symptom of deep-seated sycophancy that has infiltrated Kenya’s religious institutions.

“When a shepherd turns the pulpit into a political auction block, the sheep are left vulnerable,” Kabando noted. “Bishop Karatu’s declaration is not prophecy; it is partisan politics masquerading as piety. To pledge the votes of an entire congregation to a politician—while ignoring the economic cries of that same congregation—is the height of clerical malpractice.”

The former legislator argued that the church’s role is to speak truth to power, not to massage the egos of the executive. He warned that such overt alignment with the government alienates congregants who are struggling with the high cost of living and feel unheard by the current administration.

The ‘Early Morning’ Pledge

The controversy stems from Bishop Karatu’s effusive welcome of President Ruto, who was inspecting the construction of the church’s new 5,000-seater cathedral—a project the President pledged to support. Standing on the altar, the Bishop sought to quell reports that the Mountain’s ground had shifted.

• The Quote: “As our father, we shall bring all our needs to your attention because you love us... Early in the morning, we shall vote in our President to continue with work.”
• The Context: The assurance comes amid lingering resentment in the region over the ouster of Rigathi Gachagua and perceived marginalization in government appointments.
• The Incentive: President Ruto promised government assistance to complete the cathedral and conference facilities, a move critics like Kabando view as a transactional relationship between the state and the clergy.

A Battle for the Mountain’s Soul

This incident is the latest flashpoint in the battle for political supremacy in Mt Kenya. Since the dramatic political divorce between Ruto and Gachagua last year, the President has intensified his church tours in the region, using the pulpit to bypass hostile local leaders and speak directly to the people.

Analysts observe that the AIPCA church, with its deep roots in the Mau Mau freedom struggle and independent history, holds significant symbolic weight in the region. By securing the loyalty of its leadership, the President aims to stem the tide of rebellion.

However, Kabando warns that this strategy may backfire. “The believer in the pew is not a political pawn,” he emphasized. “They know the price of unga, they know the state of healthcare. No amount of pulpit endorsement can erase the reality of their empty pockets.”

As the 2027 cycle effectively kicks off two years early, the line between spiritual guidance and political mobilization continues to blur, leaving the Kenyan voter—and believer—caught in the crossfire.