Bishop Margaret Wanjiru has received a notable endorsement from a group of religious leaders as she prepares her campaign for the Nairobi governor’s seat. The blessing took place shortly after she publicly announced her intention to challenge the current office holder, Johnson Sakaja.
In a gathering captured on video and shared widely on social media, several church leaders surrounded Wanjiru. They placed their hands on her head and shoulders while one of them held a bottle of oil. The moment appeared solemn and prayerful, with those present focusing on the act of anointing. Wanjiru, dressed in a patterned blue outfit, stood quietly as the leaders prayed over her. The event was organised under the banner of the Kenya Moja Movement, which has begun promoting her as its preferred candidate for City Hall.
Wanjiru is no stranger to public life. She has long been known as a pastor and has previously served in political roles. Her decision to seek the Nairobi governorship marks a return to competitive politics after a period focused more on her church work.
Supporters who attended the endorsement ceremony described it as a sign of spiritual and moral backing for her candidacy. They argued that the city needs leadership guided by strong values and that her background as a church leader positions her well to address the concerns of ordinary residents.
The endorsement comes at an early stage of the race. Nairobi remains one of Kenya’s most closely watched counties because of its size, economic weight and the many challenges facing its residents, from housing and transport to waste management and security.
Any candidate who enters the contest will need to present clear plans on these issues. Wanjiru’s supporters hope the visible support from religious figures will help her build momentum among church-going voters, who form a significant part of the city’s population.
Critics of mixing religion and politics may view the public anointing with caution. Some observers prefer candidates to keep faith and governance more separate.
Others see no problem with religious leaders offering public support when they believe a candidate shares their values. For now, the ceremony itself was straightforward. There were no lengthy speeches in the shared footage, only the act of prayer and the laying on of hands.
Wanjiru has not yet released a detailed manifesto. Her early messages have focused on the need for change at City Hall and a promise to work closely with communities.
The religious leaders who backed her did not outline specific policy demands in the recorded moment. Their role appeared limited to offering spiritual encouragement and public recognition of her candidacy.
Wanjiru’s early endorsement gives her a measure of visibility and a ready network of supporters within church circles.
