By Steve Mark Misori
Nairobi, Kenya.
DOUBLE speak, biased opinion and laced sermon are the latest kidnappers of our once respected religious leaders as African governments and States continue their looting spree of public resources. The role of the clergy does not begin and end on the Day of Worship. The clergy is charged with the responsibility of confronting social ills, defending human ideals and promoting social justice in the society. The men of the cloth should assume this high calling with humility and resolve to restore dignity of life without necessarily aligning themselves to any political philosophy or argument. These leaders are expected to preach and teach without any regard for one’s social status or standing.
I have watched with disdain religious leaders following political leaders during political activities and even taking center stage in advising the citizens to support political party positions. Such embarrassing actions have given high ranking political players the leeway to frustrate the will of the majority. Where does this leave the congregation? For how long will the flock be treated to such insensitive calling? It is a shame that Africa is hijacked on the highway to heaven by touts who already know the consequences of missing heaven. The future of Africa is no longer in the hands of politicians and the people. All that Africa needs is a sensitive clergy that would reprimand rogue politicians and command their flock to elect into office leaders of high moral standing.
The men of the cloth must address issues affecting the general citizens through engaging in meaningful dialogue devoid of bias. Today, Africans participate in the election of their leaders who turn out to be dealers once they are sworn into office. The new club of dealers ropes into their circles business moguls, power hungry politicians, religious leaders of big appetite and corrupt henchmen. The main business of this club being advancing their own intent and frustrating that of the electorates. To this end, our leaders from the pulpit have reluctantly failed to provide civic education and meaningful electoral awareness due to conflict of interest.
In the light of this, Africans must appreciate the very fact that they are on their own. They must desist from entertaining leaders who engage in public relations rather than public service. Africa has suffered for too long but solutions are within. The electorates always picking clever leaders at the ballot and condemning the wise ones. It is time Africans stood up to be counted in making right choices.
