Catholic Bishops have asked politicians to stop premature election campaigns, warning that they may divert national attention from pressing issues.
With more than two years until the 2027 General Election, the bishops have raised concerns over the already intensifying political climate, urging leaders to prioritise governance, the fight against corruption, security, and the rising cost of living instead.
Speaking in Mombasa during the launch of the 2025 National Lenten Campaign at Mama Ngina Waterfront, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) said political realignments were distracting leaders and escalating political tensions in the country.
"The early onset of campaigns diverts critical attention from national development, shifting focus to political theatrics while governance takes a backseat," read part of the statement delivered by Archbishop Anthony Muheria and Archbishop Martin Kivuva.
The bishops urged politicians to focus on governance until the official campaign period for the next election is declared.
"The fervour generated by political rallies creates an artificial euphoria that obscures substantive policy debates, elevating political temperatures," the statement added.
The church further warned against ethnic mobilisation, saying it has long been used as a political tool for division. They urged Kenyans to reject tribal politics and focus on national unity.
The bishops also raised alarm over rising cases of abductions and extra-judicial killings, saying they undermine the sanctity of life.
"Life is a divine gift, and it is our sacred duty to protect it. No one should be subjected to violence or denied their dignity. We urge authorities to take decisive action to end these inhumane practices," they stated.
Human rights groups in the country have echoed similar concerns, calling on the government to hold security agencies accountable for unlawful detentions and forced disappearances.
The clergy also condemned rampant corruption, criticizing the persistent misuse of public funds.
They called on the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to intensify the fight against graft, stating that corruption continues to deny Kenyans access to essential services.
"Despite promises of reform, corruption remains deeply entrenched. We desire a Kenya where corruption has no place, and where services are offered without bribes," the statement added.
The bishops further called out President William Ruto’s government for failing to address the ongoing crisis in the health sector, saying many faith-based hospitals are struggling due to delayed payments.
"Our hospitals, which serve the most vulnerable, are grinding to a halt as the government fails to remit funds owed since 2020. Over Sh2.5 billion remains unpaid, making it difficult to continue providing essential services," they said.
They also questioned the rushed transition into the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) without a clear framework, warning that the move has disrupted healthcare services for many Kenyans.
On the economy, the bishops demanded urgent action to lower the cost of living, citing rising prices of essential commodities such as food, electricity, and transport.
They urged the government to engage in transparent dialogue with stakeholders to find sustainable solutions.
Beyond governance, the church called for electoral reforms to strengthen democracy in the country.
"To restore faith in democracy, we need a transparent electoral process. This means ensuring all eligible citizens, especially the youth, are registered to vote and that elections are conducted fairly," the bishops stated.
The bishops also announced that all Fridays during Lent would be dedicated to national prayer and fasting, not only for Kenya but also for ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and South Sudan.
They called on the international community to take urgent action to end the violence in these nations.
In their closing remarks, the bishops emphasized the need for honest and selfless leadership, urging Kenyans to unite for a better future.
"The Kenya we desire is one where leaders uphold integrity, justice, and respect for all citizens. We call upon all faith groups and communities to work together to build a more just, peaceful, and prosperous nation," they concluded.
The event was attended by senior clergy members, including Archbishop Anthony Muheria (Nyeri), Archbishop Martin Kivuva (Mombasa), Bishop James Maina (Murang’a), Bishop John Kiplimo Lelei (Eldoret), Bishop Humphrey Juma (Kitale), and Bishop Willbard Lagho (Malindi).
