The House of Bishops and Pastors Association in Kenya has expressed concerns over the rising political tensions, intolerance, and ethnic divisions in the country. During a press briefing, the clerics stated that they were deeply worried about the increasing culture of intolerance, character assassination, and the rapid spread of misinformation. They noted that politics had become increasingly toxic, with leaders speaking to each other as enemies.
The clerics also expressed concern over the re-emergence of hired crowds allegedly armed and mobilized to disrupt meetings, beat, maim, kill, and destroy property in the name of political supremacy. They called on relevant institutions, including the National Police Service, DCI, NCIC, and IEBC, to take action against such groups. Bishop Robert Mukua stated that these goon networks, including their financiers, should be disarmed, dismantled, and prosecuted without fear or favor.
The religious leaders reminded the political class that they are stewards of public resources and should uphold accountability and transparency. They stressed that public resources entrusted to leaders are not their inheritance and should be managed in the interests of Kenyans. The clerics emphasized the need for leaders to be accountable and transparent in their management of public resources.
The House of Bishops and Pastors Association also called on President William Ruto to ensure that the proposed Dangote refinery in Lamu employs a majority of Kenyans. They urged the government to develop measures to ensure workers at the refinery are paid above the minimum wage, which would improve the livelihoods of residents in the region. This would also contribute to the country's economic growth.
The clerics' concerns come ahead of the 2027 elections, and they urged leaders to promote unity and avoid ethnic rhetoric. They emphasized the need for leaders to work together and promote the interests of all Kenyans, regardless of their ethnic background. The Association's call for action is a reminder of the critical role that church leaders play in promoting peace and stability in the country.
The Standard Group Plc, a leading multi-media house in Kenya, has been at the forefront of promoting fact-based reporting and holding leaders accountable. The Group's investments in media platforms, including newspaper print operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital, and online services, have enabled it to reach a wide audience and provide a platform for critical voices.
The church leaders' concerns are a reminder of the challenges that Kenya faces in promoting peace, stability, and unity. The country's history of ethnic divisions and political tensions highlights the need for leaders to work together to promote the interests of all Kenyans. The House of Bishops and Pastors Association's call for action is a timely reminder of the critical role that leaders play in promoting peace and stability.
Key points
- Church leaders in Kenya raise concerns over rising intolerance, misinformation, and ethnic divisions ahead of the 2027 elections.
- The clerics call on relevant institutions to take action against hired crowds allegedly armed and mobilized to disrupt meetings and engage in violence.
- The Association urges President William Ruto to ensure that the proposed Dangote refinery in Lamu employs a majority of Kenyans and pays workers above the minimum wage.
