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A section of clerics has raised concerns over rising cases of abductions saying they are tantamount to peace and tranquillity disruption.

The clergymen maintained that government critics, who have become targets for abduction, have their rights enshrined in the constitution and they should be subjected to legal routes including courts of law if they contravene any laws.

Led by Bishop John Njau of Blessings Revival Church Thika and Bishop Samuel Irungu of Embassy of God Miracle Church in Witeithie, Juja, the men of the cloth chided the State for remaining tight-lipped on the matter and failing to stop the abductions.

They upheld that year 2024 was marred with a myriad of challenges and hardships which have seen Kenyans lose faith in the government as well as government institutions.

Speaking separately during the celebrations to usher in the new year 2025, the bishops maintained that the government must respect its citizens and show good will by releasing all youths who are still held captive by individuals believed to be state officers.

Bishop Njau said that parents whose kids were abducted are in anguish adding that if the trend is not stopped, it might fuel anarchy in the country.

“Kenyans are angered by the Kenya Kwanza regime for turning a deaf ear on important issues affecting them. Demonstrations, as witnessed in several parts of the country on Monday, might continue until the government addresses all concerns raised by Kenyans,” noted Njau.

Bishop Irungu pleaded with the government to ensure that key issues that bedeviled the country in 2024, including high cost of living, increased taxation, opulence among the political class, underdevelopment, unfulfilled promises and corruption, are addressed this year.

He also quipped that the church will not allow politicians to turn the altar into a political battleground adding that the church has learnt it’s lessons after playing a key role in the Kenya Kwanzas win during the 2022 elections.