Catholic Bishops Condemn Ruto Government Over Lies and Abductions

: Kenya’s Catholic Bishops slam President Ruto’s administration for dishonesty,
extrajudicial killings, and rising insecurity in a bold statement.

Kenya’s Catholic Bishops have issued a damning indictment of President William Ruto’s
administration, accusing it of fostering a “culture of lies, corruption, and abductions.” In a
statement released on November 15, 2024, during a conference in Nairobi, the Bishops cited
specific cases of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and unfulfilled promises that
have plagued the administration.

The Bishops’ critique adds to mounting public frustration with a government that came to power on a platform of integrity and economic reform but is increasingly seen as perpetuating impunity and injustice.

Bishops Condemn Government’s Track Record

In their joint communique, the Bishops condemned rising insecurity, misuse of power, and
human rights violations. Archbishop Martin Kivuva, Chairperson of the Kenya Conference of
Catholic Bishops (KCCB), stated:

“The abductions, killings, and harassment of innocent citizens by state agents have
become disturbingly common. These acts go against the very principles of human
dignity that we, as a nation, must uphold.”

The clergy specifically referenced recent incidents, including:

The Dandora Disappearances

In March 2024, three activists from Dandora, Nairobi, disappeared after leading protests
against illegal evictions. Witnesses claimed they were last seen being arrested by
plainclothes officers. Their bodies were found weeks later in the Tsavo National Park,
sparking outrage from human rights groups.

Police Brutality During Anti-Tax Protests

In July 2023, protests erupted across major towns following President Ruto’s approval of
the Finance Act 2023, which introduced new taxes, including a controversial housing
levy. At least 17 protesters were killed in Kisumu and Nairobi after police used live
bullets to disperse crowds. Despite promises to investigate, no officers have been held
accountable.

The Sugar Importation Scandal

In September 2024, a report revealed that senior government officials had overseen the
importation of 400,000 metric tons of substandard sugar from Brazil, violating health
standards. The sugar, flagged for high levels of mercury, was reportedly distributed
nationwide. Critics accused the government of prioritising profits over public health.

Ruto Government Fires Back

The Ruto administration responded swiftly to the Bishops’ criticisms, dismissing them as
exaggerated and politically motivated. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, addressing
journalists in Nakuru, said:

“These claims of abductions and extrajudicial killings are baseless. We are a
government committed to the rule of law and the protection of human rights.”
President Ruto, speaking at a rally in Eldoret, accused his detractors of seeking to destabilise
his administration:

“The church should be a development partner, not a megaphone for opposition
politics. My government has created jobs, improved security, and reduced the cost
of fertilisers for farmers. Let us focus on building the nation.”

Analysis: Misdeeds Tarnish Ruto’s Legacy

The Bishops’ criticisms are not isolated but reflect growing public discontent. While Ruto rode to power on a campaign of “bottom-up” economic transformation, his administration has faced a string of scandals and controversies.

Broken Promises on the Economy

The government’s pledge to lower the cost of living has been marred by the rising cost of
basic commodities. In October 2024, inflation stood at 11.3%, with prices of maize flour
and cooking oil hitting record highs despite government subsidies.

Rising Insecurity

In August 2024, 12 people were killed in Turkana County in a resurgence of banditry.
Despite deploying the Kenya Defence Forces to the region earlier in the year, locals
claim that the government’s efforts have been ineffective.

Culture of Secrecy

The government’s opacity has also been criticised. For instance, details of a $2 billion
loan secured from China in February 2024 remain undisclosed, raising concerns about
debt sustainability and misuse of funds.

Church-State Rift Worsens

The Catholic Church’s critique echoes its historic role as a moral compass during political
crises. The church has been a beacon of accountability, from challenging Moi’s one-party rule to mediating post-election disputes. However, Ruto’s administration appears increasingly
dismissive of this influence, labelling the Bishops’ remarks as biased.

Political analyst Dr. Wandia Njoya notes:

“The church’s message resonates with ordinary Kenyans who feel betrayed by
broken promises. Ruto risks alienating a powerful institution that has historically
shaped public opinion.”

Opposition’s Opportunity The church’s statements provide ammunition for opposition leader Raila Odinga, who lauded the Bishops for their courage. Speaking in Kisumu, Odinga remarked:

“The church has said what millions of Kenyans are feeling. The government must
address these injustices before it’s too late.”

Conclusion: A Reckoning Ahead

As President Ruto approaches the halfway mark of his term, his administration faces a
credibility crisis. The Bishops’ intervention underscores the urgent need for reforms in
governance, security, and transparency.

Failing to address these issues risks deepening public discontent and further eroding trust in a
government that promised to uplift the nation’s poorest.