The recent launch of a Christian political party in Kenya could further divide the East African nation along religious lines, Church leaders argue.

On 28 October, the Rev David Githii, moderator of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA), who backs a campaign for "the rule of God", led some church leaders and politicians in launching the Agano Party.

Agano (Kiswahili for Covenant) and another three parties sympathetic to Christian ideals are seeking to have "200 people of integrity" voted into parliament in next year's general election, Ecumenical News International reports.

Certain Catholic, Methodist and Anglican leaders have opposed this development, but the PCEA, Evangelical and Pentecostal leaders back the formation of a Christian political bloc. They assert that the ongoing political injustices signal clearly that the time for ungodly rule is over, and God is ready to bring in theocratic rule.

"The Church is supposed to be the conscience of society. When Kenyans are misled, it should provide guidance, but not take leadership," the Rev. Wellington Sanga, the secretary of the Methodist Church of Kenya, told ENI last week.

"We're opposed to the churches moving to take over Parliament and government. Our role should be like in the Old Testament where prophets rebuked the leaders who led people astray," said Sanga, noting that Kenyan laws require the separation of State and religion.

He added that Christian leaders in politics had failed to be shining role models for the people.

Media last week quoted Catholic Bishop Martin Kivuva of Machakos warning, "If we go that way, all churches will start forming parties and I don't think this is the right move because it will be impossible to engage political leaders."

Still, Kivuva said Christians could vote for an individual candidate who agreed with their aspirations.