Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops is now appealing to Kenyan youth to drop their hardline stance and embrace dialogue for the sake of the country.
“We request that you open up yourselves for inclusive conversations so that you are also enriched by perspectives that may not be obvious to you. In doing this you become attentive to the laws of God and bear true respect for others,” the Catholic Bishops said at a press conference Monday.
They commended the youth, Gen Z, for articulating many issues that Kenyans resonate with over the last couple of weeks noting that their actions have been instrumental in driving change and highlighting social ills in the country.
“You have elicited a national even global conversation on what it means to be a democracy, the kind of leadership that should spur creativity and opportunities for citizens, the values and principles that define our public institutions. We thank you and continue to support you in aspiring for good in our society,” they said
The Catholic Bishops argued that the Gen Z message is home and they now ought to give room for issues they raised to be dealt with, insisting this can only happen if Kenyans agree to engage each other without apportioning blame.
“We ask you to be cautious that you do not hurt others, which might turn against your great agenda for a better country. Be inclusive and supportive of constructive ideas and conversations,” they said in a statement read by their chairperson Most Rev. Maurice Muhatia Makumba,
“We all have made mistakes, no one can claim to be faultless. Allow us also to correct you on some of the vulgar and improper slogans that have been used in these moments,” they appealed
While appealing to the youth to give dialogue a chance, the Bishops said the President had heard their cry.
“We commend President William Ruto, for finally listening to the cry of the people, which has been brought out sharply by the Gen Zee protests. Specifically, by declining to sign the controversial Finance Bill, and dissolving the Cabinet to give space for a more competent, dependable and leaner team that can deliver to Kenyans,” they said
In the meantime, the Bishops asked the President to make good his promise to consult widely before making appointments to the vacant Cabinet Secretaries positions.
“We emphasize the need to consider Integrity among other values in the new appointments as stipulated in our Constitution,” they said
“We ask the President to reconsider appointments in all other critical public appointments. The new appointments should inspire hope and a fresh start. Besides, they should reflect the face of Kenya as demanded in the Constitution,” they added
The Catholic bishops further expressed dismay over an increasing number of abductions and kidnappings in the country.
“The horrible and graphic images of abductions we have witnessed in the past three weeks are disheartening. Those responsible for giving illegitimate orders must take personal responsibility,”
“We are a country with laws that govern how law and order should be dispensed. This is illegal and criminal. It must stop,“ they charged
