Catholic bishops have called upon President William Ruto to repeal the Finance Act of 2023 and devise new measures that align with the current economic situation to achieve his objectives. In a media address on July 19th, the religious leaders expressed their concerns that the Act would place an overwhelming burden on struggling Kenyans.
“We realize that many Kenyans are struggling to afford essential goods and services to secure stable employment or are facing financial hardships that affect education and healthcare access. Within this background, the recently enacted Finance Act 2023 places an unsustainable burden on already distressed citizens especially those within the low-income bracket.
In their statement, the bishops appealed to President Ruto to reconsider the Act and introduce alternative measures that can achieve the same objectives without further burdening the already distressed populace.
Furthermore, the religious leaders also urged Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga, to consider resuming bi-partisan talks with the government.
“We appeal to President William Ruto and the right honorable Raila Odinga to give dialogue a chance. We demand that the failed bipartisan talks should be resumed in a different context that brings on board the religious leaders and some eminent persons and bodies.
“We believe that there is no problem however difficult that cannot be resolved through dialogue. We must at all costs avoid the loss of life no further blood should be shed in Kenya,” the bishops added.
Emphasizing the importance of dialogue, the bishops expressed their belief that all challenges, no matter how difficult, can be resolved through peaceful communication. They stressed the need to avoid any loss of life or further bloodshed in Kenya, making a passionate plea for constructive dialogue to address the nation’s issues.
