The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has launched a comprehensive critique of President William Ruto’s administration, highlighting concerns over systemic corruption, excessive taxation, and unfulfilled campaign promises.
Speaking at a press conference in Nairobi’s Ruaraka Sub-County on Thursday, November 14, the religious leaders expressed profound disappointment with the government’s track record. Central to their concerns is the government’s failure to honor its commitment to settle National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) debts owed to faith-based organizations. The bishops also express frustration over increased missionary work permit fees, noting that their attempts to engage with the president on this matter have gone unanswered.
Their criticism extend to the administration’s perceived reluctance to establish the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), despite widespread calls for its constitution. They also voice alarm over a controversial proposal to extend presidential terms from five to seven years, which they believe is being hastily advanced through Parliament. In their address, the bishops draw attention to several pressing issues they had previously raised with the government, including the burden of taxation, youth unemployment, and educational reforms encompassing both the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and funding mechanisms.
They characterize the current political climate as one dominated by deception and misaligned priorities, advocating for meaningful stakeholder engagement beyond perfunctory public consultation exercises. The KCCB’s statement also addresses serious human rights concerns, particularly regarding restrictions on free speech and the disturbing pattern of abductions and extrajudicial killings. They specifically highlight the government’s silence on the disappearances and murders of young women and girls, a situation that has deeply troubled the Kenyan public.
The bishops point to the aftermath of the June 2024 Gen Z demonstrations, where numerous families continue to seek answers about their missing or deceased children. To remedy these issues, the religious leaders urge the Ruto administration to implement effective revenue management and austere spending measures. They emphasize the importance of providing justice and compensation to families affected by police brutality during recent protests. The bishops conclude their statement with a prayer for divine guidance, calling for leadership grounded in justice, mercy, humility, and honesty.
