Catholic bishops censure State over youth deaths
By Alvin Mwangi and Lavender Kusimba, June 25, 2025Catholic bishops have castigated the government over what they termed as increased cases of total disregard of human life and dignity.
In a lengthy press conference on June 24, 2025, the clerics said the cases are alarming and accused the government of opting to suppress those who call it out instead of embracing dialogue.
“Rather than nurturing constructive youth participation, some State agencies have chosen to suppress it. We have witnessed harassment, abduction, and in some cases killing of young people whose only offence was raising their voice for accountability and justice,’ said Chairman, Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), Maurice Muhatia.
Bishop Muhatia called on Ruto to look for better ways to engage the youth, saying that their aggression was brought about by the social injustices currently happening in the society.
“The government’s primary responsibility is to protect its citizens, not to threaten, silence or punish them. A society that instils fear in its youth for simply speaking out is a society walking away from justice. Our young people are not enemies of the State,” he said.
At the same time, the bishops called on young Kenyans to exercise their right to peaceful protest within the law, while sharply criticising State actions that have undermined legitimate demonstrations.
The bishops decried the excessive use of force by police and alleged collusion with criminal elements during last year’s protests.
“As bishops, we appeal to the youth to exercise their rights peacefully and within the law,” Muhatia said, “Since then, the Church and other civic actors have sought to engage them meaningfully, offering platforms for dialogue and participation.”
The bishops noted that violence against unarmed protesters not only shatters families but also erodes public trust.
“We have witnessed the harassment, abduction, and in some cases, killing of young people whose only offence was raising their voice for accountability and justice,” Muhatia added.
The bishops also demanded accountability for officers and collaborators who perpetrated violence.
“How can goons work together with the police? We demand justice for all those murdered and those shot, and the conviction of all the perpetrators,” said Anthony Muheria, KCCB vice-chair.
Similarly, the clerics dismissed the increased empowerment meeting by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
“This practice has entrenched a culture of cronyism and tokenism where proximity to power determines who receives services and who remains neglected,” said Bishop John Oballa.