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Kenyan bishops urge peace amid unrest

Protesters march in Nairobi on June 25, 2024, against Kenya's proposed finance bill. (Photo: Monicah Mwang)

As tensions rise across Kenya, the Catholic bishops of Kenya have urged citizens, especially young people, to remain peaceful, sincere, and courageous.

In a statement released on June 24 ahead of national protests, the bishops expressed deep sorrow over the ongoing violence and recent loss of life, including the death of protester Boniface Kariuki, allegedly shot at close range by a police officer. The demonstrations had been sparked by the earlier death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody.

“We are seriously concerned about the grave disregard for human life in our country,” the bishops stated, lamenting frequent reports of disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and intimidation.

Recalling victims by name, they reminded the public that these are not just statistics but real people, “brothers, sisters, priests, sons, daughters, and friends who deserve protection and justice.”

Amid serious economic challenges, the bishops called on authorities to listen to the voices of the youth, “Generation Z,” whose demands, they said, are legitimate and must be addressed.

They also encouraged young people to resist violence and manipulation. “The Church loves and cares for you,” they affirmed.

 

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