Kenya’s Religious Leaders Decry “new regime of rights” Pushing for Same-Sex Relations

They say that if lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) orientations are embraced as a diversity of sexuality and identity, “we will soon find ourselves accepting bestiality on the same grounds.”

The faith leaders representing Christian, Hindu, Muslim, and African Traditional religions say same-sex relations are not only against the Constitution of Kenya but they are also a health hazard. 

“The Constitution of Kenya identifies and safeguards the family as the basic unit of society, and we quote Chapter 4, Article 45 recognizes the family as the natural and fundamental unit of the society and the necessary basis of social order and should therefore enjoy the recognition and protection of the State,” they say. 

IRCK members add that HIV transmission is high among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Kenya. 

Referencing the 2022 study by the University of Nairobi Faculty of Health Sciences on the Geographic Transmission of HIV among MSM in Kenya, they say that the virus’ prevalence among gay men in the country has been on the rise. 

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They add that the United Nations estimates that 20 percent of MSM are infected with HIV and HIV/AIDS prevalence is higher among the LGBTQ than the normal heterosexual relations.

IRCK members pledge to defend “the defensible moral rectitude acceptable by the majority and frown upon any socialization that raises a mortal threat.”

“We cannot close our eyes to the incontrovertible fact that this slice of western liberalism is a trojan horse which will lead to the destruction of the family unit,” IRCK members lament.

They add, “We cannot silently watch as children are indoctrinated with ideas that will destroy the family.” 

To address the issue, the religious leaders call upon President Willian Ruto of Kenya to “protect children and teenagers from LGBTQ indoctrination by activists, individuals, or any organization.”

They also urge the Ministry of Education to conduct an audit of learners’ books and ban the circulation of all materials that encourage same-sex relations.

IRCK members recommend the introduction of reporting desks for cases where minors are suspected of being introduced to LGBTQ so that action can be taken against the culprits.

They also urge the government to establish psychosocial support centers for victims who seek rehabilitation.

Magdalene Kahiu is a Kenyan journalist with passion in Church communication. She holds a Degree in Social Communications from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA). Currently, she works as a journalist for ACI Africa.