Bishop Charles Muchene Muturi of the Anglican Church of Kenya has declined an appointment by Governor Kimani Wamatangi to the Kabete Municipal Board. In a letter addressed to the Kiambu County Government, the bishop explained that he could not accept the offer due to ecclesiastical rules that prohibit sitting bishops from holding public office.
Bishop Muturi and 73 others have been nominated for various public positions.
In his statement, Bishop Muturi cited the provisions of the Provincial Constitution of the Anglican Church of Kenya and resolutions from Provincial Synods, along with consultation with the Diocesan Chancellor, as the basis for his decision. He politely declined to submit his documents or appeal before the Sectoral Committee of Planning and Urbanization for the vetting process scheduled on April 9, 2024.
Following Bishop’s announcement, Kiambu senator Karungo Thang’wa commended Bishop Muturi’s decision and highlighted his significant contributions to the community, particularly in supporting initiatives for the welfare of the boy child, combating illicit alcohol and drug abuse, and fostering development within the Church and the country.
Senator Thang’wa acknowledged the governor’s recognition of Bishop Muturi’s leadership, but raised concerns about the underlying motives.
He claimed, “It is evident that the appointment was an attempt by the governor to drag religious leaders into his administration, deflecting attention from Kiambu’s governance challenges, particularly concerning the untimely establishment of municipal boards. This delay risks the county losing substantial funding from the World Bank.”
Thang’wa expressed concern over the timing and intent of the appointments, highlighting the challenges facing Kiambu County. He called upon the Governor’s office to consider alternative candidates from the community’s talent pool.
The senator reiterated his appreciation for Bishop Muturi’s principled stance, emphasizing the importance of upholding the integrity of the church and its leadership.
