The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has expressed deep concern over the disillusionment and agitation among Kenyans due to severe economic hardships.
In a statement on Wednesday, July 19, the KCCB appealed to President William Ruto to repeal the Finance Act 2023, saying that it places an unsustainable burden on already distressed citizens.
The bishops noted that the high cost of living has made it difficult for many Kenyans to make ends meet and maintain a decent standard of living. They also said that basic needs have become increasingly unaffordable, making it challenging to access essential goods and services.
“Within this background, the recently enacted Finance Act 2023 places and an unsustainable burden on already distressed citizens especially those within the low income bracket,” the statement read in part.
The KCCB also condemned acts of violence and abuse of power during demonstrations, saying that the police must exercise restraint and focus on apprehending those responsible for chaos, rather than resorting to brutality against innocent citizens.
“We strongly condemn police brutality that has marred recent demonstrations. While acknowledging the presence of criminal elements among protesters who resort to violence and destruction, we emphasize that the police must exercise restraint and focus on apprehending those responsible for chaos, rather than resorting to brutality against innocent citizens,” the statement said.
The bishops conveyed a message of solidarity to those who have suffered at the hands of law enforcement officers, acknowledging the pain, trauma, and injustice experienced by the victims and their families.
“We call on the government to take steps to ensure that the police are held accountable for their actions and that the victims of police brutality receive justice,” the statement said.
The KCCB’s statement comes amid a wave of protests against the high cost of living and the government’s economic policies. The protests have been met with a heavy-handed response from the police, with reports of widespread arrests and brutality.
The bishops’ statement is a strong condemnation of the government’s handling of the protests and a call for the repeal of the Finance Act 2023. It is also a reminder of the need for the police to respect human rights and the rule of law.
