Church leaders across Nairobi, Meru, and Kisumu have issued a series of sharp statements faulting President William Ruto’s administration over corruption, economic strain, and gaps in essential services.
Their remarks, published by the Standard newspaper on Friday, have sparked renewed public debate on the role of the Church in speaking on governance matters.
In Kisumu, Anglican Bishop Charles Ong’injo accused the government of making hollow promises to the region while ignoring persistent social and economic challenges.
He said national leaders were offering token appointments instead of addressing deeper issues affecting local residents.
Further concerns were raised in Nairobi, where Catholic Archbishop Philip Anyolo said long-standing appeals to curb corruption had not led to meaningful change.
He warned that public officials could not denounce corruption in speeches while failing to uphold integrity in practice.
Faith-based hospitals were also highlighted as an area of urgent concern.
Archbishop Antony Muheria, the Vice Chair of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, said billions of shillings in unpaid claims from the National Health Insurance Fund and the Social Health Authority were straining Church-run facilities.
He cautioned that several institutions were close to shutting down.
In Meru, NCCK regional leader Rev Nicholas Mutwiri said many Kenyans felt poorer than they were a year ago and believed the country was headed in the wrong direction. He cited rising living costs and unemployment as key complaints among residents.
Lawyer Willis Otieno later weighed in on the discussion through a statement on X. He commended the clergy for taking a firm position at a time he said many institutions were reluctant to speak out.
He referenced past Church leaders who challenged state excesses, saying their legacy remained relevant.
The statements add to a growing list of public calls urging the government to address economic pressures, improve oversight, and settle outstanding health-related payments.
By Nairobi