The family of slain Catholic priest Father Allois Bett has made an emotional appeal for justice while extending forgiveness to his killers. During a moving requiem mass held at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Eldoret, the family expressed their hope that the blood of the fallen priest would usher in peace for the troubled Kerio Valley.
Leading the mourners was Father Bett’s mother, Eunice Bender, who, despite her grief, symbolized the family’s strength and grace. Family spokesman Amos Samoei declared that the family had chosen forgiveness to allow a dignified farewell for Father Bett, who will be laid to rest on June 3 in Nandi County.
However, Samoei questioned the delayed investigations into the priest’s murder, comparing it to the swift arrest of suspects in a recent Nairobi MP’s killing. “They used CCTV and everything possible to get the killers of the MP. Why not use the same speed to get these people?” he asked, voicing the family’s frustration.
He called on the Marakwet community to send elders to initiate reconciliation, saying the family was open to healing but still demanded justice.
Father Bett was ambushed and fatally shot by bandits two weeks ago while returning from a small Christian community mass near St. Mulumba Church in Tot, Kerio Valley. His death has sparked outrage and renewed calls for an end to banditry in the region.
Bishop Dominic Kimengich, who presided over the mass, condemned the violence, stating that the bandits had “crossed all red lines.” He urged the government to act decisively to end the killings and address rising insecurity in Kerio Valley. “Time for empty talk is over we demand action,” the bishop declared.
Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang echoed these sentiments, calling on the community to cooperate and surrender the suspects as earlier promised.
As the faithful prepare for Father Bett’s burial, a somber mood hangs over the region. His final journey will take him through Holy Family Ol’Lessos Parish and St. Michael’s Terige High School for a public vigil and funeral mass, with top government and church leaders expected to attend.
