The Role of the Church in Kenyan Politics through Social Justice and Christ’s Prophetic Office

Abstract

This paper examines the post-colonial historical involvement of the church in Kenyan politics and its subsequent decline in influence. It argues for the revitalization and perpetuation of the church’s voice in politics, particularly through the lens of social justice and Christ’s Prophetic Office as a model. The church has played a significant role in socio-political transformation in Kenya, and Rev. Dr. Timothy Njoya and other individuals whose activism and leadership exemplified this involvement. Rev. Dr. Njoya and others’ fearless resistance against injustices and dedication to championing social change made them influential figures within the church and the broader society. Their commitment to upholding the principles of justice and equity in the face of political oppression sparked national conversations and motivated others to take action. However, the church has gradually lost its voice in Kenyan politics over the years, resulting in a diminished impact on policy-making and social change. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including the erosion of moral authority, political co-optation, and the prioritization of personal agendas over wider societal concerns. Consequently, the church’s role as a catalyst for positive change has become marginalized, leaving a void in the political landscape. In order to revive and maintain the church’s voice in Kenyan politics, this paper proposes the adoption of a renewed focus on social justice and Christ’s Prophetic Office as a model. By utilizing the prophetic tradition within Christianity, the church can regain its influence and advocate for the voiceless, particularly the most vulnerable in society, who are often marginalized in political discourse. Christ’s Prophetic Office provides a blueprint for engaging with political structures while upholding the values of justice, compassion, and equality. This paper draws on extensive research of existing literature, historical analysis, and interviews to analyze the decline of the church’s voice in Kenyan politics and to propose strategies for its revitalization. It highlights the urgency of the vulnerable inclusion in the political processes and argues that an active, socially-just church can empower them to reclaim their voice and contribute to the development and transformation of Kenyan society.