Kenyan Bishops Urge Action Against Political Campaigns, Corruption, and Abductions

The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has highlighted pressing issues in Kenya during the launch of the 2025 Lenten Campaign. Key concerns include premature political campaigns for the 2027 elections, continuing abductions, corruption, and ethnic mobilization. The bishops are urging the government and citizens to work towards unity, dignity, and transparency to ensure national progress.

At a recent event marking the launch of the 2025 Lenten Campaign, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) presented urgent concerns regarding the current socio-political climate in Kenya. They highlighted several critical issues, including the premature political campaigns leading up to the 2027 elections, the scourge of corruption, continued abductions, and a troubling atmosphere of ethnic mobilization. The bishops have implored the government to prioritize governance over early electioneering, which distracts from national development.

The bishops expressed that the premature onset of political activities violates the spirit of democracy and could incite divisive sentiments among communities. They lamented that the exploitation of ethnic identities has historically triggered violence and hindered national unity, stating a collective commitment to recognize and respect each individual irrespective of their ethnicity or political stance. They encouraged all Kenyans to foster mutual respect and unity in their efforts towards establishing a cohesive nation.

The issue of abductions and enforced disappearances was also firmly addressed, with KCCB emphasizing the need for protections that uphold human dignity. They condemned extrajudicial killings and called upon authorities to take strategic and transparent measures to safeguard life. The bishops reiterated that every human life is sacred and deserves protection from violence.

Corruption was described as a pervasive challenge stymying the nation’s progress and eroding public trust. KCCB’s statement underscored the need for robust anti-corruption initiatives, urging the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to enforce measures that ensure accountability and transparency in government operations. They called for a societal commitment to rooting out corruption from all sectors.

In summary, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops has called for immediate action to address numerous challenges facing the nation. The premature political campaigns, rampant corruption, ongoing abductions, and ethnic division must be prioritized for resolution. The bishops advocate for a unified approach that respects human dignity and fosters an equitable society, emphasizing the importance of ethical leadership and community resilience in overcoming these adversities.

Original Source: www.aciafrica.org