The Inter-Religious Council of Kenya (IRCK) has issued a heartfelt appeal to the government and citizens to de-escalate tensions and restore peace, warning that Kenya is on the brink of collapse due to ongoing unrest linked to the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
In a statement released at the end of a three-day retreat at Ulwazi Place in Nairobi, the clergy described the situation as a “dangerous and sad” moment for the nation. The IRCK, led by chairman Rt Rev Willybard Lagho and executive director Linus Nthigai, condemned the escalating violence, political power struggles, and abuse of state power, which have resulted in the deaths of dozens of Kenyans during protests.
“This is not the Kenya we want,” the statement read. “The fight by the dominant political elite to acquire, protect and consolidate power has plunged the country into unprecedented chaos.” They pointed to reports of property destruction, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings as signs of a deepening crisis.
The clergy expressed alarm over the government’s response to protests, particularly the events of the July 7 Saba Saba demonstrations. While police claim 11 people died, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported 31 deaths, highlighting a disturbing disparity and raising questions about state accountability.
Calling for justice and truth, the IRCK urged the Ruto administration to prosecute officials linked to violence and corruption and establish a Judicial Commission of Inquiry into all protest-related fatalities since June 2024.
The council also warned against the politicisation of religion and ethnicity, saying such tactics are eroding national unity. Quoting scripture and Kenya’s National Anthem, the IRCK called on Kenyans to reason together and pursue peaceful solutions to the country’s socio-economic challenges.
“Justice be our shield and defender,” the statement concluded, offering the IRCK’s services as mediators in the national crisis.
Their message comes at a crucial time, as growing public anger over governance, inequality, and state brutality threatens to plunge the country into deeper unrest.
