Clerics have raised concerns over rising cases of abductions saying that they will disrupt peace and tranquility in the country.
The clergymen maintain that government critics, who have become targets for abduction, have their rights as enshrined in the constitution and they should be subjected to legal routes including courts of law if they contravene any laws.
Led by Bishop John Njau of Blessings Revival Church Thika and Bishop Samuel Irungu of Embassy of God Miracle Church in Witeithie Juja, the men of the cloths chided the State for remaining mum on the matter and failing to stop the abductions.
They said that 2024 was marred with a myriad of challenges and hardships that has seen Kenyans lose faith in the government as well as its institutions.
Anarchy
Speaking separately during the celebrations to usher in new year 2025, the Bishops maintained that the government must respect its citizens and show good will by releasing all youths who are still held captive by individuals believed to be state officers.
Bishop Njau said that parents whose kids were abducted are in anguish adding that if the trend is not stopped it might fuel anarchy in the country.
He noted that Kenyans are angered by the Kenya Kwanza regime for turning a deaf ear on important issues affecting them. He quipped that protests, as witnessed in several parts of the country on Monday, might continue until the government addresses all concerns raised by Kenyans.
“Stop hurting Kenyan children and causing pain to parents through abductions. This can cause mayhem and disrupt peace in the country. The Government must rectify all mistakes, respect and solve all issues affecting Kenyans.
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Bishop Irungu pleaded with the government to ensure that key issues that bedevilled the country in 2024, including high cost of living, increased taxation, underdevelopment, unfulfilled promises and corruption, are addressed this year.
He also quipped that the Church will not allow politicians to turn the altar into a political battleground adding that the Church has learnt its lessons after playing a key role in the Kenya Kwanzas win during the 2022 elections.
Bishop Irungu however pleaded with Kenyans and especially the youths to exercise their freedom with restraint and not to smear or malign names of leaders and other individuals as well.
Rule of law
Their sentiments were echoed by some parents who expressed their concerns over the abductions and killing of innocent youths especially during and after the Gen Z anti-Finance Bill 2024 demonstrations in June last year.
Luciana Muturi urged the Government to uphold rule of law and charge all law offenders in law courts instead of taking extra-judicial measures against them.
Reverend Agnes Irungu urged leaders to concentrate on improving the livelihoods of Kenyans and reviving the country’s economy
By Kamau Njoroge
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