The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has voiced strong criticism of President William Ruto’s administration, citing concerns over a persistent culture of dishonesty, corruption, unmet promises, and misplaced priorities. Speaking on behalf of the KCCB, Archbishop Maurice Muhatia of Kisumu condemned the political leadership for ignoring pressing issues such as high taxation, unemployment, challenges in implementing the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), and the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
“We have repeatedly raised these concerns with the government, yet responses have been minimal. While things appear calm on the surface, there is deep anxiety, and trust in the government is eroding,” said Muhatia.
Bishop Dominic Kimengich of Eldoret further highlighted unresolved matters, including excessive taxation, increased costs of missionary permits, youth unemployment, CBC regulation issues, and delays in establishing the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). He decried what he called “a culture of lies, broken promises, and misplaced priorities.”
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The clergy also criticized the political class for self-serving politics and infighting that threaten national unity. “These political conflicts have heightened unnecessary tensions, deepened divisions, and fostered mistrust among citizens and within the government,” said Muhatia.
Kimengich also questioned the proposed bill to extend the five-year term limit to seven years, urging close examination of the motivations and long-term impact of this move.
The bishops further accused the government of failing to clear outstanding NHIF payments owed to faith-based hospitals and expressed doubts over the transition to the SHA, which they believe has led to significant suffering in healthcare facilities.
Concerns over laxity in addressing corruption, along with reports of abductions, disappearances, and killings, were also raised. “Who is responsible for these abductions, and is the government powerless to prevent them?” Muhatia asked.
In response to these issues, the bishops have urged Kenyans to come together in prayer during these challenging times.
