The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has cautioned the government against enacting controversial laws and neglecting public participation, warning that such actions threaten democracy and fundamental freedoms.
Addressing the press on Thursday, the bishops criticized the government for what they termed a worrying trend of forcing unpopular legislation through Parliament, particularly citing the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2025, and the Land Amendment Act, 2025.
“We raise concerns on the recent laws passed, especially the Cybercrime and Land Acts, which Kenyans have widely rejected,” the bishops said in their joint statement. “These laws must be reviewed to prevent misuse that could suppress freedoms, invade privacy, or manipulate electoral processes.”
The clergy also warned against the proposed Religious Regulation Bill, describing it as a direct attack on the constitutional right to freedom of worship. They urged the State to allow faith-based organisations to operate independently without political interference.
“The church and faith communities have a divine mandate to serve society,” the bishops stated. “Attempts to regulate religion are unacceptable.”
On education, the bishops expressed frustration over what they termed “confusion and politically motivated decision-making” that has disrupted learning. They criticized the government’s sudden shift from the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to the Competency-Based Education (CBE) model, warning that the move could destabilize the system and compromise quality.
“The confusion in the education sector in recent years is astounding,” they said. “We should not gamble with the lives of our children. Education policy must prioritize learners, not politics.”
The bishops also condemned the government’s failure to clear billions owed to faith-based hospitals under the defunct NHIF and the new Social Health Authority (SHA). They said the debts have crippled service delivery and strained suppliers.
“Our hospitals are owed billions. Despite repeated assurances, the payments have not been made, leaving health workers and suppliers frustrated,” the bishops lamented.
However, the clergy commended the government’s efforts in stabilizing the shilling and investing in infrastructure, particularly in roads and TVET institutions, which they said were helping young Kenyans acquire valuable skills.
“We acknowledge progress in stabilizing the shilling and improving infrastructure. We urge the government to build on these gains while addressing public concerns openly and honestly,” they concluded.
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