Catholic Bishops Condemn Police Violence, Call for Justice After Deaths of Young Protesters
Nairobi – Catholic bishops in Kenya have issued a strong public rebuke of police brutality, following a string of deaths during recent youth-led protests. The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), speaking during a press briefing Tuesday morning, condemned what they described as a disturbing rise in extrajudicial killings and unchecked state violence.
The statement follows the killing of 22-year-old hawker Boniface Kariuki Mwangi, who was shot at close range by a police officer during a protest in Nairobi. His death was captured on video and sparked nationwide outrage.
“This was a shocking act,” the bishops said. “Police are tasked with protecting life, not ending it.”
The bishops connected Mwangi’s death to other unresolved cases involving the killings of clergy and activists, including Father John Mina, Father Alois, and blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang. Each case has stirred national debate over accountability in law enforcement.
“When those responsible for protecting the public become the source of fear, justice breaks down,” the bishops said. “These victims are not statistics. They were brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, and members of our communities.”
The bishops recalled the June 2024 anti-tax protests, led largely by Gen Z youth, marking one year since thousands took to the streets to oppose tax hikes and demand economic reforms. Many of those protesters were met with force.
“Our young people are not enemies of the state,” the bishops said. “They raised real concerns about unemployment, rising costs, and failed leadership. These voices deserve to be heard—not silenced.”
They also called for calm and urged young people to avoid violent clashes during demonstrations, instead encouraging peaceful action and civic maturity.
“As we remember those who died in the 2024 protests, we pray for them,” they said. “We cannot bring them back, but we can honor their lives with justice and peace.”
The bishops urged the government to return to a path of integrity and compassion, calling on leaders to listen and take corrective action.
“To our leaders, your role is not only to govern but to heal,” they said. “True leadership corrects, listens, and restores. Lead with conscience.”
The clergy also demanded independent investigations into killings and abductions, fair trials, and accountability for any officer involved in unlawful violence. They called for protections for civic activists and human rights defenders.
“This country cannot be ruled by fear or intimidation,” the bishops warned. “Leadership must come from dialogue, service, and empathy.”
They concluded with a national call to prayer. All Catholic churches across the country will dedicate this coming Sunday to mourning the victims of police violence and praying for a peaceful path forward.
“Let us join hands to build a Kenya where every citizen is valued, every voice respected, and every life protected,” the bishops said.
