Show of unity: How beatification brought together bickering leaders

Catholic faithful follow the relics of Sister Irene Stefani ‘Nyaatha’ from the Mathari main chapel to
the St Mary’s Secondary School ground in Nyeri town during her beatifi cation last Saturday. She is now called Blessed Sister Irene Stefani. [PHOTO: MBUGUA KIBERA/STANDARD]

The beatification ceremony of Sister Irene Stefani ‘Nyaatha’ did not only unite Christians from across the world, but also provided a rare reconciliatory platform for local political leaders, previously hostile to each other.

Last Saturday, the leaders, led by Governor Nderitu Gachagua, buried their political differences and presented a unified front before President Uhuru Kenyatta, his Deputy William Ruto and the world.