PRESS RELEASE
THE STATE OF THE NATION
“He has shown you, O mortal man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).
Introduction
Dear fellow Kenyans, we, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, gathered here at John Cardinal Njue Pastoral Centre in Embu, express our gratitude to the Almighty God for the blessings he has unceasingly given us, as Kenyans. We continue to thank Him for the peace in the country in spite of challenges, for the resilience of our people in their daily endeavors, and the emerging spirit of nationhood among Kenyans, especially the young people.
The Church has a role in providing direction and counsel to society and the State on social matters. “When the dignity of our brothers and sisters is violated, when politics fails to address the tragedies of humanity, when the economy turns against the person or science oversteps the limits of its competence, the Church, together with other Christian denominations and believers of other religions, must make her voice heard, not in order to dominate, but to promote communion.” (Pope Léo XIV, Magnifica Humanitas, no. 27)
Guided by the Gospel, we call for responsible leadership, peaceful participation, respect for human rights and protection of the most vulnerable, as Jesus teaches, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matt. 5:9).
We have reiterated on many occasions that we must reject the culture of goons and all forms of political violence and threats to life. We now offer the following reflections and pastoral appeals for the good of our nation.
- To Our Young People
Following the decision and encouragement of the AMECEA Plenary Assembly that reflected on the space of the young people in the Church and in society, we especially urge young people to grow to be active, responsible, and fulfilled citizens proud of their country.
We, your shepherds, are proud of your concern for the Nation. We encourage and support your energy, creativity, and interest in participating in civic duty. As we head to next year’s General elections, we ask you to first make all efforts to get an identification card (ID), then register to vote so that you can elect the leaders of your choice. In addition, we remind you to remain steadfast in maintaining peace throughout the campaign period. Some politicians will lure you with enticements to be involved in political malpractices and cause violence. You have a life to live, moreover, in dignity. No one should use it for acts of lawlessness. In 1 Timothy 4:12, St Paul encourages you that “let no one despise your youth; but be an example to those who believe, in word, in your way of life, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity.” We are all brothers and sisters, children of God, our creator. Resist the lure of money to cause violence. Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus Christ for the lure of money. Let not “apparent good” blind you to engage in violent activities. Instead, during the time of campaigns, use your creativity and social-media skills to protect your brothers and sisters, ensuring that justice and peace are the shield for everyone around you.
Read the full PRESS RELEASE
