Freemasonry Grand Master Speaks After Closure of Nairobi 'Church', Says They're Not a Secret Society

Freemasonry has long been a topic of intrigue, speculation, and misunderstanding. Described by many as a secret society shrouded in mystery and occult practices, the truth about Freemasonry is often far less sensational. Recently, the Grand Master Mason of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, William Ramsay McGhee, took it upon himself to clarify misconceptions surrounding Freemasonry during a statement made in Nairobi, Kenya.

A Misunderstood Organization

McGhee had much to say about the widely held belief that Freemasonry operates under the veil of secrecy for nefarious ends. On May 16, 2025, he addressed attendees in Nairobi, claiming that Freemasonry is fundamentally a fraternity built on the principles of personal improvement, ethical conduct, and community engagement.

"Contrary to what some people believe, Freemasonry is purely and simply an organization where we try to make good men better men. We strive to instill in them the values of integrity, honesty, and being God-fearing," McGhee stated.

The Quest for High-Quality Men

Freemasonry is predominantly an organization dedicated to transforming good men into even better individuals. The Grand Master emphasized that members strive to uphold virtues that define humanity, asserting that these principles are universal and resonate across different cultures and religions.

"Freemasonry only exists to enhance the values taught by holy books, and its virtues align with the broader moral fabric of society," he explained.

The Role of Tradition

The traditional "secrets" of Freemasonry are often misrepresented. McGhee explained that these secrets are not meant to be deceptive; rather, they serve a purpose in helping members navigate through various life phases and moral challenges.

"The secrets within Freemasonry are not malicious," he asserted. "They're designed to guide members in complying with the cardinal aspects of masonry, which revolve around humanity and order."

Freemasonry: A Catalyst for Innovation

McGhee further debunked misconceptions by saying that Freemasonry's principles extend well beyond what many believe. He stated that the secrets are not just confined to ceremonial practices but include promoting innovation in fields such as technology, music, and the arts.

"If it were a secret society, I wouldn't be standing here talking to you today," he said, highlighting the transparency that is an increasingly vital aspect of Freemasonry. "It's merely to ensure that those who are coming into Freemasonry have something exciting to tell them as they progress through the various degrees."

Degrees of Freemasonry

According to McGhee, Freemasonry is structured around a series of degrees that members must earn, each designed to layer understanding and responsibility.

1. First Degree: Members are educated about their home country's laws and encouraged to contribute positively to their community and become exemplary individuals.

2. Second Degree: Here, candidates explore the liberal arts and sciences, including music, thereby fostering a sense of culture and appreciation for artistic contributions.

3. Third Degree: Omitted from many discussions, this degree often emphasizes leadership, ethics, and the responsibilities that come with greater knowledge.

Recent Controversies

McGhee's statements came soon after the Nairobi County government ordered the closure of a Freemason Hall due to alleged outstanding land rates amounting to over KSh 19 million. The county's revenue department warned of disconnection of essential services if the debts were not settled promptly, threatening legal action against the society's members.

Despite this troubling situation, McGhee confirmed that the leadership of the Freemason Hall took the necessary steps to resolve the issue through legal means and was confident that the matter would be resolved swiftly.

The Confession that Shook the Nation

Adding to the contemporary dialogue on Freemasonry in Kenya was Ambrose Rachier, a well-known figure in the sports and legal fields and long-serving chairman of Gor Mahia FC. In a shocking revelation during a televised interview in October 2022, Rachier disclosed his membership in the Freemasons, a confession that startled both friends and followers alike.

Rachier has been a Freemason since 1994, and his admission raised eyebrows across a society that had long been taught to be wary of Masonic affiliations. His reveal came as his close colleague, Otiende Omollo, Rarieda MP, expressed surprise upon learning of Rachier's allegiance to the fraternity.

"I was shocked to learn on TV that my ally was a member," Omollo mentioned in a social media post, making it clear that he distanced himself from Rachier's confessions while assuring their clients of professional services devoid of controversy.

Rachier clarified that joining the Freemasons is not as straightforward as joining a traditional religious institution; it requires a recommendation from existing members and is thus more exclusive.

Public Perception and Intrigue

As discussions about Freemasonry continue to capture public interest, the tension between fact and fiction remains a prominent issue. The public's perception is mixed, with some individuals viewing it as an upper-class privilege while others regard it with skepticism or outright fear. However, McGhee is adamant that countless misconceptions can be addressed through dialogue and transparency.

"If people can talk openly about Freemasonry, we might just eliminate some of the misunderstandings that have lingered for centuries," he suggested, noting that many misgivings arise from a lack of information.

A Future for Freemasonry

With influential figures like McGhee and Rachier openly discussing their experiences and roles within the organization, it is hoped that Freemasonry can reshape its image in the public eye. The path forward lies in creating avenues for education and discussion.

McGhee concluded his address by urging skeptics to approach Freemasonry with an open mind:

"Let us not be guided by hearsay. If you want to know the truth about Freemasonry, visit our lodges, speak with our members, and learn about our principles and commitments."

In essence, Freemasonry may not be the enigma that many perceive it to be. Instead, it could very well be a fellowship focused on ethics and character development, actively working to debunk myths while promoting values that contribute positively to society.

Conclusion

As the debate surrounding the Freemasons continues to unfold within Kenya and beyond, it is clear that the organization's principles are not secretive or sinister but rather rooted in the noble pursuit of personal and communal growth. The Grand Master William Ramsay McGhee and members like Ambrose Rachier are taking crucial steps to foster understanding and demystify the age-old organization that many still misunderstand.

As we navigate through a world filled with misinformation, organizations like Freemasonry have a unique opportunity to redefine themselves and showcase their real values—honor, charity, community service, and brotherhood. It remains to be seen how much this message will resonate in the long term, but the initial momentum appears promising.