The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops has expressed serious concerns about escalating insecurity, corruption, healthcare failures, and moral decline, all of which jeopardize Kenya’s social and political stability.
In a media briefing at Donum Dei, Roussel House in Karen, the bishops highlighted that unexplained killings, rampant corruption, and a faltering healthcare system are eroding the sanctity and dignity of human life.
They cautioned that organized violence, often involving “goons,” flourishes only with the backing of influential individuals, asserting that such activities occur under the watchful eyes of security agencies.
“The rise of a culture where goons intimidate, disrupt meetings, and even commit murder can only persist if it receives sponsorship and protection from the powerful,” the bishops stated.
The clerics urged leaders to view public office as a responsibility rather than an entitlement, condemning the increasing prevalence of insult-driven political rhetoric.
“Public figures must uphold a moral obligation to communicate with civility, keeping in mind that children and young people are observing their actions,” they emphasized.
The bishops also expressed alarm over a troubling pattern of killings reminiscent of the Shakahola tragedy, citing recent deaths in Binzaro, Kilifi, and Kericho, and warning of a growing indifference towards human life.
They noted that such incidents often receive inadequate investigation and are quickly forgotten, particularly when the victims are from poor and vulnerable backgrounds.
Regarding security and public safety, the bishops condemned the rising number of road fatalities, particularly during the Easter period, which saw more than 50 lives lost.
They called for stricter enforcement measures by traffic authorities and emphasized the need for greater responsibility from both motorists and commuters.
The bishops highlighted a worsening healthcare funding crisis, revealing that Catholic hospitals are owed over Sh5.7 billion, along with additional historical debts from the defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund.
They criticized the underperformance of the Social Health Authority scheme and urged for immediate reforms, warning that inefficiencies in the system endanger lives.
“The overall performance remains inadequate. We must not continue to circle the same issues at the expense of lives in need of medical care,” they stated.
In the realm of education, the bishops questioned the implementation of the Competency-Based Education curriculum, labeling it poorly planned and resource-intensive. They called for a comprehensive multi-sectoral review while ensuring that the role of religious sponsors in schools is preserved.
They further characterized corruption as deeply ingrained in society, referring to it as an “axis of evil,” and urged Kenyans to reject graft and reclaim moral accountability in public life.
Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, the bishops encouraged young people and eligible citizens to register as voters, asserting that participation is crucial for shaping national leadership.
“A voter’s card serves as your only proof in determining our leadership,” they remarked, framing civic engagement as a vital duty toward restoring justice and national integrity.
