Kenya atheists’ community is calling for the abolition of the National Prayer Breakfast, describing the annual event as a wasteful display that drains public resources without offering tangible benefits to citizens.
In a statement released on May 28, Harrison Mumia, President of the Atheists in Kenya Society, criticized the event as an “extravagant” use of taxpayer funds and called on Parliament to cancel future editions of the breakfast, which is scheduled to take place at the luxurious Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi.
“Today, millions of taxpayers’ money will be wasted on the National Prayer Breakfast,” Mumia stated. “This event, organized by Parliament, is unnecessary and ostensibly without priority.”
Mumia, who attended the event in 2024, said the gathering lacked constitutional justification and failed to serve any national interest.
Atheists on National Prayer Breakfast
He framed the event as emblematic of wasteful government spending that ignores pressing public needs.
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“All Government spending must provide a necessary public service and serve a clear national interest,” part of the statement read.
“Kenyans deserve a government that is meticulous at avoiding wasteful and unnecessary spending,” the statement added.
The National Prayer Breakfast is an annual event that brings together leaders from across the political, religious, and corporate spectrum in what organizers describe as a moment of reflection and unity.
The Atheists in Kenya Society has previously clashed with religious institutions and government over state support for faith-based initiatives.
National Prayer Breakfast
The National Prayer Breakfast, previously held on the last Thursday of May each year, will take place a day earlier this time.
The 22nd edition of the annual event has been rescheduled from Thursday to Wednesday, May 28.
Organized by the Kenyan Parliament, the gathering will be hosted at the Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula officially informed Members of Parliament about the change in an address to the House on April 30.
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This interfaith event brings together leaders from various sectors for a time of prayer, reflection, and recommitment to national values.
This year’s theme, ‘Rise and Rebuild’, shows the need for unity and renewal across Kenya’s political, economic, and social spheres.
“It offers a moment for the country to pause and reflect as we work toward rebuilding key areas of national life,” Wetang’ula noted.
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