Story number 1 for 27 Dec 2002

(Kenya)–Topping the news, Kenya’s presidential and parliamentary elections are underway, marred by outbreaks of violence. For many nationals, the general consensus is that these are historic elections, possibly the most important since independence in 1963, and a test for new leadership. Aside from new government, there is also a new constitution being presented. Words of Hope’s Lee DeYoung says some of their workers are concerned. “Although Kenya remains a predominantly Christian country, nevertheless the new constitution has portions that have been inserted into the draft currently before people, which embodies quite a bit of Islamic, Sharia law.” As to how this affects evangelistic work, DeYoung suggests: “That’s something to pray about, that that won’t actually impede the Gospel. Regarding the current political climate, people are cautiously hopeful that either of the leading presidential candidates may lead to a better government.”