Catholic Bishops in Kenya Decry Inter-Ethnic Violence, Urge “political will” for Unity

“This political will is urgently needed to prevent further loss of lives and livelihoods,” said the Local Ordinary of Kitale Diocese. 

He added that the government needs to deploy security personnel in the affected areas with “ample security gears and equipment which will enable them to work efficiently”.

In the KCCB statement read out at the end of the Eucharistic celebration that was concelebrated by Bishop John Mbinda of Lodwar Diocese, the Catholic Church leaders in Kenya urge the government “to expedite the declaration of the boundaries between the counties of Turkana and West Pokot.”

Bishop Odonya said, “Part of the problem seems to emanate from boundary dispute and duplication of administrative units along the disputed border. Such a declaration will eliminate duplication of administrative units and will enable people to live where they wish in conformity with the Constitution of Kenya.”

KCCB members want members of the local communities to have the responsibility of maintaining harmony. 

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Addressing themselves to members of the local communities of affected areas, Catholic Bishops in Kenya say, “Restrict yourselves from any counterattacks. Be ambassadors of peace and harmony and refuse to be used by selfish individuals to disrupt peace.”

The government needs to ensure children in the region have access to education, KCCB members say, referring to learners in the affected areas of Turkana and West Pokot Counties.

“Government policy on education is that it is compulsory for all. We are shocked that many children in both counties do not go to school. The government is to make sure all children have access to education and education facilities as a right,” KCCB members say.

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