The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) on Tuesday called on young
Kenyans to exercise their right to peaceful protest within the law, while
sharply criticizing state actions that have undermined legitimate
demonstrations.
In a joint statement, the bishops decried the excessive use of force by
police and alleged collusion with criminal elements during last year’s June 25
protests.
“As bishops, we appeal to the youth to exercise
their rights peacefully and within the law,” KCCB Chairman Rev. Maurice Muhatia
said.
“Since then, the Church and other civic
actors have sought to engage them meaningfully, offering platforms for dialogue
and participation.”
The bishops expressed deep sympathy for the
families of young people who lost their lives during the 2024 demonstrations.
They noted that violence against unarmed protesters not only shattered
families but also eroded public trust.
“We have witnessed the harassment,
abduction, and in some cases, killing of young people whose only offence was
raising their voice for accountability and justice,” Muhatia added.
The Bishops also condemned what they described as “selective application of
the law” and warned that such actions weaken the nation’s moral fabric.
“The law must protect all and issue justice to everyone,” they said through
Nyeri Archbishop Anthony Muheria.
“A society that instils fear in its youth for simply speaking out is a
society walking away from justice.”
While urging restraint from protesters, the
bishops placed primary responsibility on government security agencies to
safeguard citizens’ rights.
“The government’s primary responsibility is to protect its citizens, not to
threaten, silence, or punish them,” Muheria stated.
They demanded accountability for officers and collaborators who perpetrated
violence.
“How can goons work together with the police? We demand justice for all
those murdered and those shot, and the conviction of all the perpetrators.”
The bishops also called for a permanent
memorial to honour the young Kenyans who died during the protests.
“As we remember those who died in the protests of 2024, we pray for those
young souls. They should not have lost their lives, yet we cannot bring them
back. It is fair to give them a fitting memorial,” Muheria noted.
