#Anthony Muheria

Politicians can no longer use Catholic churches as campaign stages. The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) announced the ban on Thursday. It spoke at a press conference at the Cardinal John Njue Pastoral Centre in Embu. The rule applies to every Catholic church in the country, and priests must enforce it strictly. "We are direct that there shall not be any political address given in any of our Catholic churches in any part of our country," Nyeri Archbishop Anthony Muheria said, according to The Star and Capital FM. He said the bishops had told all priests to implement the position "with the diligence and seriousness it deserves." The bishops said they regretted a growing number of incidents in which politicians tried to turn churches into campaign platforms. Muheria said people from rival parties come to church to find inner peace. They come as worshippers, not as party members, he said. The Church does not treat worshippers differently because of their politics or social status, he added. Politicians can still reach voters through the media, barazas and roadside rallies. The bishops also urged Kenyans to judge current leaders on their record and vote carefully. "Vote wisely. It is a great opportunity to exercise our individual and…