The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has criticized President William Ruto’s government, accusing it of fostering a “culture of lies” and failing to address critical issues affecting ordinary Kenyans.
In a statement issued on November 14, under the theme Let Us Restore Hope, the Bishops expressed deep concern over what they described as a growing disconnect between government promises and actions, which they say is undermining the integrity of the nation.
“The culture of lies is swiftly replacing the integrity and respect that Kenyans deserve,” the statement reads, accusing the government of propagating falsehoods and dismissing the truth.
The Bishops noted that, “it seems that truth does not exist, and if it does, it’s only what the government says.” They warned that Kenyans should no longer tolerate political deceit, urging citizens to, “seek and be led by the truth, rather than applaud or validate the lies of politicians.”
A major point of contention for the Bishops is the government’s failure to meet its financial obligations to essential service providers, particularly Faith-Based Organization (FBO) hospitals, which are now owed billions of shillings.
“When the government fails to fulfill its promises, particularly concerning payments to essential service providers, it harms vulnerable communities,” the Bishops stated.
They highlighted the crisis within the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), which has led to mounting debts for hospitals and healthcare providers that serve the most disadvantaged in society.
In addition to healthcare, the Bishops raised a range of unresolved national issues. These include the over-taxation of Kenyans, the sharp rise in missionary work permits, the ongoing crisis of youth unemployment, and concerns over the controversial Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in education.
They also decried the government’s failure to properly constitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). “These matters require more than just casual public participation; genuine consultation with all stakeholders is necessary,” the statement emphasized.
The Bishops further issued a stern rebuke, calling for an end to the “culture of lies, unkept promises, and misplaced priorities.” They argued that this approach is not only damaging the trust of the Kenyan people but also jeopardizing the nation’s future.
“This is unacceptable and must be dealt with,” they said, calling on the government to engage in honest dialogue and take meaningful action on the issues that matter most to the people of Kenya.
