Atheists in Kenya Society Petitions for National Holiday to Recognize Non-Religious Kenyans

The Atheists in Kenya Society (AIK) has formally requested a national holiday, asserting that non-religious Kenyans deserve recognition akin to that given to major religious groups through public holidays. AIK contends that this holiday would establish a significant step toward equal treatment for secular and non-religious individuals within Kenya’s multicultural landscape.

This appeal was prompted by President William Ruto’s recent consideration of making Diwali a national holiday, encouraging AIK members to seek equal acknowledgment. AIK plans to submit a petition to Parliament on November 1, 2024, advocating for a national holiday celebrating atheism.

AIK President Harrison Mumia explained that such a holiday would represent the principles of humanism, secularism, and free thought for Kenyans identifying as non-religious. Mumia emphasized that this request aligns with Article 27 of Kenya’s Constitution, which guards against discrimination based on religion, conscience, and belief. "If Parliament dismisses our petition, we are prepared to pursue legal action," he stated. AIK members argue that their beliefs and perspectives warrant the same recognition as existing religious holidays, such as Christmas and Eid al-Fitr.