Stick to facts, Ruto responds to catholic bishops

By Peter Ochieng

President William Ruto has told Catholic bishops in the country to stick to facts, a day after they accused him and his administration of embracing a ‘culture of lies and unkept promises.’ 

Ruto, speaking during a graduation ceremony at Tangaza University in Nairobi, urged the bishops to stick to facts, lest they become victims of things they accuse others of doing. 

“Even as we engage in public discourse on matters that are important to the people of Kenya, we must be careful to be factual lest we become victims of the things we accuse others of doing," he said as some of those in attendance broke into laughter. 

"I know you know what I mean," he added amidst giggles from some of those present. 

On Thursday, the bishops under their umbrella body – Kenya 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 them, but rather must resolve to seek and be led by the truth,” they added. 

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.” 

Some government officers among them Spokesman Isaac Mwaura have disputed the contents of the bishops’ statement.