Religious leaders drawn from the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops and the National Council of Churches of Kenya(NCCK) have appealed to President William Ruto to hear the cry of the people of Kenya who are heavily burdened by the prevailing global economic crisis and the drought that is yet to end despite the onset of rains.
In a statement signed by the bishops’ Association chairman Martin Kivuva and the NCCK chairman Archbishop Timothy Ndambuki, they said there are many families that are sleeping hungry, businesses have collapsed, jobs have been lost, and yet the cost of living is continuing to rise.
“We strongly recommend that your administration considers adopting policies and strategies that give Kenyans hope while addressing the economic challenge in the short and long terms. Without this approach, Your Excellency, we fear that the growing sense of hopelessness will push the country into instability and possibly violence,” they said.
As an immediate mitigation measure, they recommend that the Finance Act 2023 is repealed so as to review the heavy taxation burden imposed on Kenyans.
In addition, they urged a cessation of domestic borrowing by the government so as to enable banks to loan private businesses
that drive the local economy.
The leaders also appealed to opposition leader Raila Odinga to recognize the key position he holds and the contribution you make in shaping the current and future of the nation.
“Appreciating that justice is the foundation of stability and peace, we urge you to spearhead an issue-based and solution-oriented approach to secure the nation from sliding into chaos and violence,” they added.
They also appealed to Raila to reconsider the proposed mass action programme which is likely to make the situation worse for Kenyans.
“We also urge that you do not give the people false hope that the government can be removed from office through collection of signature,” they added.
The Bishops urged Kenyans to firmly resist incitement by political and social leaders who are focused on selfish ambitions.
“Instead, let each of us deliberately engage all public participation forums and opportunities, taking every chance to influence policy and decision-making processes.
“We should not leave the destiny of our families in the hands of politicians alone, and should instead adopt the mantra of “Nothing for us without us”.”
