Culture on unkept promises is unacceptable, Bishops tell Ruto

By Peter Ochieng

President William Ruto has been urged to ‘call himself for a meeting’ and address issues facing Kenyans, before the electorate completely lose faith in his administration.

Addressing the press in Nairobi on Thursday, members of the Kenyan Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) led by chairman Maurice Muhatia, said the culture of ‘lies and unkept’ promises is slowly eating up Ruto’s administration.

“The culture of lies is slowly replacing the integrity and respect that Kenyans deserve. Basically, it seems that truth does not exist, and if it does, it is only what the government says,” they said in a joint statement.

“Unfortunately, it seems that Kenyans have helplessly tolerated the lies told to them constantly by the politicians. Kenyans must learn not to applaud or validate the lies that the politicians tell, but rather must resolve to seek and be led by the truth.”

They criticised President Ruto’s administration for failing to fulfil payment promises, especially to critical service providers.

“When the government fails to fulfil its promises particularly concerning payments to essential service providers, it harms vulnerable communities. This is the case with NHIF. The neglect of faith-based organisation’s hospitals, now owed billions in dues, is an issue we have addressed constantly even with the President,” added the clergy.

The bishops called out the government for championing political wrangles, violation of human rights, curtailing freedom of speech and overtaxing Kenyans coupled with the selfish agenda to extend the term of elected leaders.

“A two-term limit of 10 years as given by the current constitution is ample time for any visionary political leader to leave a strong legacy if they perform. We need to critically scrutinise this move.”

The term extension Bill by Nandi Senator Samsom Cherargei was vehemently opposed by Kenyans during public participation.

The catholic bishops urged political leaders in the country to provide good leadership and governance, guided by the values of justice, mercy, humility, selflessness and honesty.