Nandi county: Nandi County leaders have challenged the clergy to guide society in embracing and supporting leaders who uphold high moral values and virtues that promote a culture of integrity, accountability, and selfless service. Speaking during a fundraising ceremony in aid of the construction and development of eight churches held at Matema Primary School in Tinderet Sub County on Sunday, Governor Stephen Sang and Tinderet MP, Julius Melly, called on members of the clergy to intensify their pastoral mission by providing sound spiritual guidance that would inspire ethical political leadership and a responsible public service.

According to Kenya News Agency, the leaders observed that while governments formulate laws and institutions enforce them, the Church remains the cornerstone in shaping ethical and moral values that influence how leaders conduct themselves in public office. Governor Stephen Sang said churches play an indispensable role in moulding the conscience of individuals from childhood to adulthood, making them critical partners in promoting integrity, peace, and social justice.

Governor Sang emphasized the need for leaders who fear God, respect the rule of law, and prioritize the interests of the people above personal gain. He noted that cases of corruption, abuse of office, and declining public trust could be significantly reduced if society embraced strong ethical values anchored on faith and personal responsibility. The governor urged religious leaders to continue preaching righteousness, honesty, and servant leadership, as their influence extends beyond the pulpit into families, schools, businesses, and government institutions. He also challenged political leaders to submit themselves to spiritual guidance and remain accountable to both God and the people they serve.

Tinderet MP Julius Melly echoed the governor's sentiments, asserting that sustainable socio-economic transformation can only be realized where public servants and elected leaders are guided by integrity, humility, and compassion. He emphasized that the Church has a sacred responsibility to nurture men and women of character, and as leaders, they rely on the prayers and counsel of the clergy to ensure their decisions remain focused on serving wananchi diligently and fairly.

Melly appealed to Christians to continue supporting church programs aimed at strengthening families, mentoring young people, and promoting peaceful coexistence, noting that these efforts contribute directly to national development. He observed that moral decay, drug abuse, and intolerance among sections of society require renewed spiritual intervention, adding that churches should continue offering hope and counselling to vulnerable groups. The legislator further commended the organizers of the fundraiser, noting that the construction and expansion of places of worship would provide conducive environments for worship, mentorship, and community empowerment.

The fundraiser brought together faithful from different denominations, community leaders, professionals, youth groups, and women organizations in support of the eight churches seeking resources to complete various development projects. Participants pledged continued support for the churches, expressing confidence that stronger faith institutions would contribute to building morally upright leaders, cohesive communities, and a public service founded on integrity, accountability, and the common good.