President William Ruto on Sunday praised the newly appointed Bishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Katakwa Diocese, Bishop Vitalis, during his consecration ceremony in Amagoro, Busia County.
Addressing congregants and leaders gathered for the installation of the fourth bishop of the diocese, Ruto highlighted the unique opportunity Bishop Vitalis has with a full 10-year tenure before retirement in 2037.
"I have heard that you will retire in 2037 after 10 years. You are very lucky, Bishop," he remarked, drawing laughter from the audience. The President added, "Getting 10 years without a break is not easy. Some of us are trying very hard."
Ruto expressed his commitment to supporting Bishop Vitalis and working closely with him to serve the communities in Busia, Bungoma, and Kitale.
"As one of the leaders of the Republic of Kenya, you are welcome. Let us work together, and I want to commit to you my friendship and partnership as we serve the great people of this diocese," he said.
The ceremony brought together church officials, worshippers, and political figures from the region to witness the bishop's formal installation and the start of his episcopal ministry.
Political Context
The president's remarks come amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections. Ruto has confirmed his intention to seek a second and final term, urging voters to judge his leadership based on achievements in infrastructure, housing, digital innovation, and healthcare reforms.
Opposition leaders have intensified their campaigns, aiming to consolidate support against the Kenya Kwanza administration. Both sides continue to engage the public through church events, grassroots meetings, and regional tours as election preparations accelerate.
Ruto maintains that the electorate will ultimately decide the next leadership based on performance and service delivery.
