New Methodist Church Leader Calls for National Healing and Integrity, Vows Internal Renewa

By John Toris 

In a historic transition of power, the Methodist Church in Kenya (MCK) has concluded its 60th Annual Conference by electing Rev. Dr. John Maromba Mucheke as its new Presiding Bishop, who immediately issued a strong call for ethical leadership and unity in the face of the nation's political and economic challenges.
PHOTO: Newly elected Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of Kenya Rev. Dr. John Marimba Mucheke

The conference, held at the Methodist Resort and Conference Centre from November 24th to 29th, 2025, also saw the election of Rev. Dr. Nicholas Mutwiri Nieere as Conference Secretary and Mr. David Kaburia as Honorary Treasurer. In a significant move, the church also elected new Synod Bishops, including two women, a step the new leader said affirms the church's commitment to gender representation.

In his first press statement, Bishop Mucheke, who becomes the 8th Presiding Bishop, did not shy away from addressing both the country's crises and the church's own recent "painful seasons."

A Frank Admission and a Path to Healing

Striking a tone of transparency, Bishop Mucheke acknowledged that the MCK has been marred by "internal tensions, leadership disputes, and strained relationships," which he said caused pain within the church and damaged its public witness.

"These challenges wounded our fellowship and tested our unity," he stated. However, he declared that by electing new leadership, the conference had made a "courageous statement" to leave division behind.

"The season of division is behind us. The season of rebuilding begins now," he announced, committing the church to a new path of "repentance, humility, truth, and healing."

A Nation at a Delicate Moment

Turning to the national stage, the Bishop outlined a four-point moral critique, emphasizing that the church speaks from "moral conviction and the teachings of Christ," not political alignment.

1. On Governance and Integrity: He delivered a stern reminder to all leaders that "power is stewardship, not entitlement," and condemned corruption for "draining our nation's strength." He called for "accountable, truthful, and servant-minded leadership."
2. On Economic Justice: Noting the struggles of many Kenyans with rising costs and joblessness, he urged the government to adopt people-centred policies. While appreciating efforts to stabilize the economy, he stressed that "a nation cannot flourish when its citizens lack basic necessities."
3. On Political Division: Expressing concern over increasing polarization and "ethnic fear," particularly in recent by-elections, Bishop Mucheke affirmed that Kenya must "reject the politics of fear and embrace hope," and that national unity must come before personal ambition.
4. On Youth Frustration: He called for "meaningful job creation" and genuine empowerment for young people who feel "unheard and discouraged."

A Commitment to Serve and Partner

Bishop Mucheke pledged that under his leadership, the MCK would remain "a voice for the voiceless, a bridge of peace, and a custodian of moral conscience." He also committed to partnering with the government and other stakeholders through the church's extensive network of schools, hospitals, and community ministries.
PHOTO: Newly  elected leaders of the Methodist Church of Kenya addressing members of the press in Nairobi 

He concluded with a message of hope, pledging to serve as a "servant-leader" and team leader with the clergy and laity. "With God as our help, we step forward with renewed strength and conviction," he said. "May God bless the Methodist Church in Kenya. May God bless the Republic of Kenya."

The statement signals a new chapter for the Methodist Church in Kenya, one focused on internal reconciliation and an assertive role in advocating for ethical governance and national unity.

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