Is Kenya Really the Land of the Free? Well, Not According to Catholic Bishops…

On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) dropped a bombshell with their State of the Nation address, slamming President William Ruto’s administration for what they called a “culture of lies.”

Apparently, under the Kenya Kwanza government, truth has become a luxury a commodity that most Kenyans no longer get to enjoy.

Bishop Dominic Kimengich of Eldoret Diocese summed it up perfectly: “Truth? Nah, it’s only what the government says that matters.”

The New National Pastime

According to Kimengich, it’s not just that the truth is “hard to find,” it’s that the government’s blatant deception has replaced any shred of integrity that used to exist. In his words:

“It seems like Kenyans have become professional lie-tolerators.” And you thought politicians were only bad at keeping promises they’re now mastering the art of bending reality.

So, what’s the solution? The bishops are calling for Kenyans to stop clapping for these lies and, instead, start demanding the truth imagine that!

Abductions, Femicide and a Nation That Seems to Care Less

But that wasn’t all. The bishops didn’t just stop at the “cultural” crisis they took aim at the very real, very disturbing rise in abductions and killings.

KCCB chairperson Maurice Muhatia was not having it: “Who’s behind these kidnappings and murders?” he asked. The government’s response? Crickets.

Women, in particular, seem to be the prime targets of this violence, and Muhatia made it clear that this isn’t just a headline; it’s anger-inducing, disgusting, and deeply alarming.

Too Busy to Protect the People?

The bishops didn’t mince words when they said it: the government is failing to protect its citizens, despite having taken an oath to uphold the Constitution.

The law? It’s supposed to protect every Kenyan’s life (Article 26, anyone?), but apparently, that’s just too much to ask these days.

Corruption? Oh, It’s Worse Than Ever

And then there’s the juicy bit: corruption. The bishops accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of outdoing even the most creative forms of political greed.

It’s no longer about just pocketing public funds. Now, it’s about abusing positions of power to get whatever they can. Muhatia didn’t hold back: “The greed we are witnessing is both shocking and heartbreaking.” If you thought things couldn’t get worse, think again.

The Healthcare Nightmare

Just to add some extra spice to this government critique, Archbishop Anthony Muheria of Nyeri had previously chimed on November 8, criticizing the government’s disastrous handling of healthcare policies.

The new Social Health Authority (SHA), replacing the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), has made it even harder for ordinary Kenyans to access medical care.

Sounds like a brilliant idea, right? Not quite. For many, it’s just another reminder that if you’re poor in Kenya, you’re pretty much on your own when it comes to staying healthy.

State of the Nation Address Coincides with Gen Z Protest at Parliament

President William Ruto is scheduled to deliver his annual State of the Nation Address on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at a joint session of Parliament in Nairobi.

The address, set for 2:30 p.m., will outline his administration’s achievements, challenges, and future plans. However, the day is poised to be marked by heightened activity as members of Generation Z, known for their advocacy and activism, have announced plans to occupy Parliament grounds in protest.

The parallel events underscore a growing generational demand for inclusion and reforms, adding a layer of anticipation and tension to the President’s address.

So, What’s Next? A “Culture of Lies” Is Here to Stay

Bottom line: Kenya’s bishops are not impressed with the state of affairs under Ruto’s leadership. A culture of lies, a spike in violence, and unchecked corruption are just the tip of the iceberg.

So, if you thought this government was going to live up to its promises, well, you might want to lower your expectations… and prepare for more of the same.