Church leaders boldly criticise State over unpopular policies

A group of religious leaders has raised concerns about the intense political climate, which they believe has diverted the country’s attention from critical development projects.

The Church is now taking a firmer stance, highlighting areas where it feels the government has fallen short after being accused of blindly supporting the current administration for the past two years.

Church leaders have criticised President William Ruto’s tax strategy, arguing that it is making life difficult for citizens. They have also expressed concern over the confusion surrounding the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund to the Social Health Insurance Fund.

Catholic Church Archbishop Phillip Anyolo has called for sobriety and challenged the three arms of government to clarify their roles to prevent plunging the country into a crisis.

“There are a lot of political activity happening in the country at the moment at the expense of development projects.  We urge political leaders to tone down and focus on fulfilling their promises to Kenyans,” said Anyolo.

 He noted that the transition from NHIF to SHIF has caused major confusion and the political class has lost sight of its key responsibility: championing the interests of Kenyans and prioritising matters close to the hearts of the citizens.

Anglican Church Archbishop Jackson ole Sapit also called on the government to reduce wastage rather than increase taxation, stating that if taxpayer funds were used efficiently, the government would not struggle to provide key services to Kenyans.

Sapit warned that the country is facing an imminent financial crisis and cautioned the government against increasing taxation. He called for the rejection of the finance bill, which President Ruto shelved after nationwide protests.

“The increase in taxation will drive up the prices of basic commodities for ordinary Kenyans. This will lead to a backlash among citizens who are struggling to make ends meet. It is the government’s responsibility to address their concerns,” Sapit stated.

Tax strategies

PEFA Church Bishop John Okinda also criticized the government’s tax strategy, labelling it as likely to plunge Kenyans into poverty.

He urged President Ruto to implement tax strategies that are more favorable to citizens, arguing that the current ones are both unpopular and unfair.

He emphasised the importance of the government listening to public concerns. He asserted that the government must accommodate these interests, as it was elected to serve the people, not to complicate their lives.

Faith Evangelistic Ministry founder Teresia Wairimu, who has been seen as a supporter of the President, expressed disappointment that the government she once viewed as divinely ordained has devolved into a “government of fights.”

“We voted for this government, but to our embarrassment, it has become embroiled in conflicts. Instead of focusing on issues that impact Kenyans, like improving the economy and health sectors, I am left feeling ashamed as a voter.

In the next election, you will have to earn my support. We are tired of the noise; we want results,” Wairimu said.