By Afrireport 
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has joined a group of Opposition leaders in sharply criticising the government over what they describe as a growing pattern of intimidation, harassment and interference with freedom of worship.
Speaking during a public forum attended by political allies and religious leaders, Matiang’i accused state agencies of overstepping their mandate and undermining fundamental constitutional rights.
The leaders claimed that recent actions by security organs have increasingly targeted churches and religious gatherings perceived to be sympathetic to the Opposition.
According to them, places of worship should remain neutral and protected spaces, free from political intimidation or surveillance.
They argued that attempts to restrict worship activities or disrupt church services violate the Constitution and erode public trust in government institutions.
Matiang’i said freedom of worship is a cornerstone of Kenya’s democracy and warned that any attempt to curtail it sets a dangerous precedent.
He noted that churches have historically played a key role in offering moral guidance, promoting peace, and providing a platform for citizens to express social concerns.
When worship spaces are interfered with, it signals a deeper problem about respect for rights and freedoms,” he said.
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Opposition leaders also alleged that their members and supporters have been subjected to harassment, including disrupted meetings, increased police presence at their events, and what they termed as selective enforcement of the law.
They argued that while the government claims to maintain law and order, its actions appear skewed against those holding dissenting political views.
The leaders urged the government to respect political pluralism and allow all sides to operate freely without intimidation.
They maintained that democracy thrives when opposing voices are allowed to express themselves without fear.
Some leaders called on independent institutions, including Parliament and the judiciary, to closely monitor the conduct of security agencies and ensure accountability.
The government has maintained that security deployments around public gatherings are meant to ensure safety and prevent disorder.
Officials have repeatedly stated that the law is applied equally to all, regardless of political affiliation.
However, the Opposition insisted that recent trends point to a shrinking civic space and warned that continued pressure on religious institutions and political actors could heighten political tensions.
They called for dialogue, restraint, and strict adherence to constitutional principles, saying respect for freedoms is essential for national stability and unity.
