Kenya Catholic Bishops Criticize Ruto’s Government Over Corruption, High Taxes, and Broken Promises

The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) recently condemned President William Ruto’s administration for failing to address issues like corruption, high taxes, and unmet promises.

Speaking to the press in Nairobi, the bishops highlighted the government’s delay in repaying debts owed by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to faith-based organizations, despite earlier promises.

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The bishops also raised concerns over increased fees for missionary work permits, noting that their attempts to engage the president on this matter have been ignored. They criticized the government for not acting on calls to establish the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), a move seen as essential by various stakeholders.

Additionally, the bishops voiced alarm over proposals to extend the presidential term from five to seven years, suggesting this would be rushed through Parliament without sufficient public input.

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They highlighted persistent issues affecting Kenyans, including tax hikes, youth unemployment, and changes to the education system, which they argued have not been adequately addressed by the government.

The bishops also condemned the violation of human rights, especially cases of forced disappearances and extra-judicial killings, noting that many families are suffering due to the unresolved abductions and murders of young women and activists involved in the June 2024 Gen Z protests against corruption.

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The KCCB urged the Ruto administration to use tax revenues responsibly and cut back on excessive spending. They expressed hope that Kenyan leaders would uphold values of justice, humility, and integrity to promote better governance in the nation.