Catholic Bishops appeal for national unity, moral leadership ahead of 2027 elections

The Catholic Bishops of Kenya have appealed to all citizens to work together for a just, peaceful, and prosperous nation, highlighting both achievements and pressing challenges facing the country.

In a statement on Thursday, the Bishops, through their chairman Maurice Muhatia, reflected on national issues, commended progress in key sectors, and urged moral leadership and active civic participation to guide Kenya toward a better future.

The Bishops first paid tribute to Emeritus Bishop Philip Sulumeti, recognising his more than five decades of service in the Church and his key role in Kenya’s constitutional development.

“We pray for his soul and ask that God may reward his generous life and service with eternal happiness. May his soul rest in eternal life,” they said, offering condolences to his family, clergy, and the faithful in Kakamega Diocese.

They also expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, noting his lifelong dedication to democracy, justice, and national unity.

“His courage and endurance in the pursuit of a just and united Kenya will continue to inspire generations,” the Bishops said, emphasising Odinga’s commitment to reconciliation, freedom of expression, and devolution.

The Bishops extended sympathy to families affected by natural disasters, including the Elgeyo Marakwet landslides and the Naivasha floods. As of November 12, 2024, 39 people had lost their lives from the mudslides.

They urged faster responses to such emergencies and offered prayers for those displaced or grieving.

On national progress, the Bishops welcomed the Teachers Service Commission’s plan to recruit 24,000 teachers and acknowledged the stabilisation of the Kenyan shilling, ongoing infrastructure projects, and the establishment of TVET colleges across the country.

They encouraged young Kenyans to pursue skills training while praising the relative peace enjoyed despite political tensions.

However, the Bishops raised concerns over the passage of recent laws, including the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act and the Land Amendment Act No. 21 of 2025.

They warned that these laws, rushed through parliament, could undermine citizens’ freedoms and urged careful public participation to ensure transparency and accountability.

“The fears Kenyans have expressed regarding these new laws should not be brushed off. They deserve to be listened to and, where necessary, corrective measures taken,” they said.

Education reforms were highlighted as a major concern.

The Bishops criticised inconsistent guidance in the transition from CBC to CBE, teacher shortages in rural areas, and syllabus disputes, including the inclusion of Religious Education.

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They stressed fair allocation of teachers and resources and insisted that no child should be denied education due to unpaid fees.

Also, the Bishops discussed the Social Health Authority (SHA) medical scheme, acknowledging its benefits while highlighting delays in payments to hospitals.

“We still await the payment of all pending arrears owed to our hospitals, any other Faith-based hospital, and private hospitals across the country,” they said, warning that continued delays could jeopardise healthcare delivery.

With the accelerated voter registration underway, the Bishops encouraged citizens, particularly youth, to register and participate in the 2027 elections.

They emphasised that civic engagement is essential to shaping a transparent and accountable government.

They also urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to expand registration access, including in remote regions.

Finally, the Bishops spoke out against corruption, describing it as a major obstacle to national growth and effective service delivery.

“We cannot condemn corruption publicly while tolerating it privately; integrity must be lived, taught, and defended with courage and consistency in all places,” they said, calling for leadership by example and citizen vigilance.

Reaffirming their commitment to Kenya’s welfare, the Bishops called on all citizens to embrace hope, uphold justice, and actively contribute to building a nation where everyone’s rights are respected. They invited all Kenyans to pray for the country during the Nativity season, promoting peace, unity, and shared prosperity.