Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has come out in support of a statement issued by the Conference of Catholic Bishops calling for a national dialogue to address the issues affecting Kenyans.

Speaking to a crowd in Thika Town after attending a church service at PCEA Thika on Sunday, June 29, Matiang’i declared his full support for the bishops’ statement, saying he agrees with it “100 per cent”.

He stated that the country has reached a point where it must come together and have an honest conversation about the challenges facing its citizens. Matiang’i noted that in times of crisis, the nation often descends into blame games, with people pointing fingers at the wrong targets instead of seeking real solutions.

“Niliona mkutano wa askofu wa katoliki wametoa barua kwa makanisa yao yote. I support it 100 percent. Kwamba imefika wakati wa kuweza kuja pamoja, tuone vile tunaweza kusulihisha shida tulizo nazo,” he said.

He went on to caution Kenyans against being dragged into ethnic politics, where different communities are blamed for the country’s problems. He insisted that the current challenges are being felt across the country, regardless of tribe or region, and urged citizens to reject divisive narratives.

“Na mimi nawaomba hivi wananchi, wakati shida iko kwa nchi sasa ni rahisi kwa viongozi wa kisiasa wengine kuanza kutugawanya, wengine kutuambia tupigane, wengine kusema ni huyu kutoa lawama hapa na pale. Tusikubali maneno kama hayo,” he added.

Addressing the crowd, Matiang’i also said that, in his view, the Kenya Kwanza administration has failed to deliver on its promises to Kenyans.

He added that the opposition, led by himself and other leaders, including Rigathi Gachagua, is ready to offer alternative leadership that responds to the needs of the people.

Statement by KCCB

On Sunday, June 29, 2025, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) called for Holy Masses to be offered across all Catholic churches in Kenya to honour young people who lost their lives due to extrajudicial killings, abductions, and violence during protests, particularly those in 2024.

This directive was part of a collective statement issued on June 24, 2025, in which the bishops expressed deep concern over the increasing disregard for human life and dignity in Kenya. They condemned police brutality, mysterious disappearances, and extrajudicial killings.

The bishops specifically highlighted the Gen Z-led protests of 2024 against high taxation and lack of opportunities, which turned violent due to excessive force by security agents.

They urged for peaceful demonstrations, called for independent investigations into human rights abuses, and advocated for dialogue to address youth grievances, emphasising that “the young people deserve listening and support, not suppression.”

They also prayed for the protection of the youth under the intercession of the Blessed Mother, Queen of Peace.