Gachagua Announces National Prayer Day After Meeting Rift Valley Governors

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Thursday, February 2 revealed plans by President William Ruto's government to hold a National Prayer Day on Sunday, February 12.

He announced this after meeting a host of governors from the Rift Valley Region, who, according to him, will be the hosts of the prayer rally event.

Nakuru Governor, Susan Kihika and Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii as well as Kericho's Eric Mutai, Nandi's Stephen Sang and Hilary Barchok of Bomet County led in briefing Gachagua on the status of preparations for the rally.

Gachagua further noted that President Ruto will grace the event as well as clergymen from the denominations in Kenya and will lead Kenyans from across the country in the national prayer.

"This morning, at Harambee House Annex Office, I met Governors from the Rift Valley Region who called on me for a brief ahead of National Prayers for our Nation, as the hosts. The prayers will be held on Sunday, February 12, 2023.

"The National Prayers, which will be graced by our President, H. E William Samoei Ruto and attended by Kenyans from across the country will be a thanksgiving to God for a peaceful election and smooth transition. Religious leaders will also lead the nation in praying for rain after five successive failed seasons," he stated.

In addition, Gachagua noted that the prayers will be offered for a fast economic recovery as well as for saving Kenya's young population from illicit brews and drug abuse.

The clergy will also pray for the healing of the nation, from the scourge of cancer, as well as pray for continued peace and security for all communities to live together in harmony.

The prayers come amidst efforts by the Kenya Kwanza administration to ease the cost of living amidst tough economic conditions, a matter which has led to some tough decisions being made which include the high cost of commodities.

The President had promised to end subsidies that were adopted by the previous administration to cushion Kenyans from the high prices, a move that drew criticism from a section of Kenyans and politicians allied with the opposition.

Ruto argued that the road to recovery would be difficult but Kenyans would eventually realise the fruits of the tough decisions to revive Kenya's economy.

Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga, has been holding public rallies in order to arm-twist the government to lower the cost of living.

The National Prayer Day was last held on May 26, 2022, led by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, which Ruto was also in attendance.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Chief Justice Martha Koome at the National Annual Prayer Breakfast at Safari Park Hotel on May 26, 2022. /PSCU