Kenya’s Catholic Bishops are calling for an end to premature political campaigns, ethnic mobilization, and corruption as part of their concerns for national stability. They emphasized the need for unity and respect among citizens while advocating for decisive government action to protect human rights and uphold integrity in public service. Their statement expresses hope for a brighter future through ethical governance and social justice.
Catholic Bishops in Kenya have expressed urgent concerns regarding several critical issues in the nation, calling for their resolution. During the launch of the 2025 Lenten Campaign under the theme “The Kenya We Desire,” the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) highlighted premature political campaigning, ethnic mobilization, ongoing abductions, and the pervasive problem of corruption as significant hindrances to national stability and growth.
The bishops criticized the early political campaigns leading up to the 2027 elections, asserting that they detract from essential governance and national development. They stressed that such political activities create an artificial atmosphere that detracts from meaningful policy discussions, potentially increasing tensions among the populace, which undermines democratic values.
Concerns about ethnic mobilization were also raised, as the bishops emphasized that utilizing ethnic identities for political gain has historically led to societal divisions and violence. KCCB urged the nation to heed the lessons from past experiences, underscoring the vital importance of unity and respect for all citizens, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds.
The bishops spoke out strongly against the rising incidents of abductions and extrajudicial killings, challenging the authorities to take serious and transparent actions to safeguard human life. They affirmed that it is imperative to protect every individual, condemning any violence that infringes upon human dignity.
Corruption was identified as a major barrier to Kenya’s progress, with KCCB highlighting the ongoing erosion of public trust in government institutions. Despite promises of reform, corruption persists, diverting resources intended for community welfare and development. The bishops urged the enforcement of strict anti-corruption measures to ensure transparency in public service delivery and resource allocation.
Regarding economic challenges, the bishops criticized certain taxation measures, described as unjust, and called for comprehensive reform in economic policies. They emphasized the importance of transparency in the management of tax revenues to ensure that funds are used to provide essential services for the benefit of all citizens, highlighting the ongoing struggles with the cost of living.
KCCB acknowledged the resilience of Kenyans and remained hopeful for future improvements. The bishops recognized a growing awareness among citizens regarding justice and unity, reinforcing their belief in the potential for positive change within the nation when ethical leadership prevails.
The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops has highlighted pressing issues afflicting the nation, including premature political campaigns, ethnic mobilization, corruption, and abductions. They urge for unity, transparency, and effective governance to address these challenges, advocating for a system that values every Kenyan’s rights and dignity. Their resolve reflects a broader desire for a just and prosperous Kenya, grounded in ethical leadership.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
