Catholic Diocese of Malindi Bishop Willybard Lagho has banned all politicians from receiving any special treatment or addressing the congregants during Holy Mass.
In a statement, the bishop emphasized that all worshippers, regardless of their social status, are equal in the eyes of the church, and no one is entitled to special seats or time to address the faithful. "I would like to remind all Parish priests, Assistant priests, and all the Laity that places of worship are sacred, and all worshippers inside the church are expected to focus on prayers, listening to the word of God, and partaking in the Eucharist," he stated. "All worshippers, including politicians, are to be treated equally, and no one is entitled to special seats or seating places, nor time to address the faithful," he added in the statement.
A photo of Catholic Diocese of Malindi Bishop Willybard Lagho photo| Inter-Religious Council of Kenya The bishop warned that churches should not be used for political or personal gain but should remain focused on prayer and listening to the Word of God. "It is therefore sacrilegious to transform the church for any other business," the bishop added in the statement.
He also criticized those who notify church leaders in advance about their plans to attend Mass, stating that such individuals should not be given special recognition. "A person who notifies church leadership regarding their plan to attend Mass on specific days and times is manifestly an entitlement seeker and should not be recognized.
