Catholic bishops criticise politicians for premature campaigns, ethnic divisions
In addition to condemning early campaigns, the bishops called for economic justice through reforms in policies such as the housing levy and taxation.
The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has strongly condemned the rising political activity in the country, raising the alarm about the premature start of political campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the launch of the 2025 Lenten campaign in Mombasa County, the bishops condemned the premature political activity by both government and opposition leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.
More To Read
“This early onset of political campaigns diverts critical attention from national development, shifting focus to the spectacle of election campaigns,” Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba said.
“The fervour generated by political rallies creates an artificial euphoria that obscures substantive policy debates, elevating political temperatures.”
The bishops’ statement comes amid growing political activity, including the formation of new political parties, rebranding of political outfits and realignments as key figures begin strategising for the 2027 elections.
It also follows increased political tours across the country.
Ruto tours
President William Ruto has made multiple development visits to western, north eastern, and coastal regions this year, with plans to visit Nyanza next week.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders, led by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, have been attending public functions, using them as platforms to criticize the government while preparing for the next election.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has also launched what he calls consultative meetings at his Wamunyoro residence in Nyeri, gearing up for the 2027 elections.
Similarly, Martha Karua has rebranded her NARC-Kenya party to the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), signalling readiness for the upcoming polls.
“This premature election fervour undermines the very spirit of the democratic process as a government is expected to concentrate on governance and implementation until the officially designated campaigning period is announced,” the bishops said.
They also expressed deep concern over divisive ethnic mobilisation, warning that it could lead to violence and deepen societal fractures.
“Over the decades, the exploitation of ethnic identities for political gain has led to violence and deep societal fractures. Today, we stand resolute in our commitment to learn from these painful lessons,” the KCCB said.
In addition to condemning early campaigns, the bishops called for economic justice through reforms in policies such as the housing levy and taxation.
They also urged the government to take urgent action on corruption to safeguard public resources and improve governance.
“These issues, along with a struggling health sector, contribute to our prognosis of a grim state of the nation,” they said.
Difficult times
Families, they noted, are facing difficult times, especially with the transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme, which has left many unable to access care.
“What was the hurry to transition without a good interface?” the Bishops asked.
Private and mission hospitals, having previously threatened to withdraw health services under the SHA, have followed through with that decision, citing the government’s failure to address debts owed to them.
“In spite of the promises made in November 2024, the only payments that came through cover part of the claims in this period only. Our faith-based hospitals are still owed not less than Sh2.5 billion. We need commitment from the government on when this amount will be paid and not mere promises,” the bishops stated.
The bishops also pointed out the need for comprehensive reforms and better resourcing for constitutional bodies like the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the country’s democratic processes.
As the political heat continues to rise in the run-up to the 2027 elections, the KCCB has called for a renewed focus on governance and national development, urging both the government and opposition leaders to put the country’s interests before partisan politics.
Top Stories Today
