Misuse of religious images to advance political discourse
John Mbiti philosophized that Africans are notoriously religious. Official statistics say Kenya is 84% Christians, about 9% Muslim and the remainder are Hindu, Buddhist, African Indigenous Religions, animists and atheists. As such, religion is a major socialization factor in Kenya. Our social, economic and political lives are replete with influences from our religious backgrounds. Yet, religion has failed in socializing Kenyans with values of brotherhood, peace, love, and unity. In politics, Christian religious overtones have been used to advance the political party's agenda. Since retired President Moi’s studious attempt to cultivate an image of a God-fearing leader, Kenyan political activities have employed the use of Christian songs and biblical narratives to persuade the common folk. President Moi’s (retired) sunset years were punctuated by Christian songs turned political protest chants. President Kibaki maintained a dignified aloofness giving the im...