Anglican Church of Kenya(ACK) Supports Catholic bishop statement, issues stern warning to President William Ruto's Administration, threatens to mobilise the public

Religious leaders from Kenya's Nyanza region have issued a stern warning to President William Ruto's administration, threatening to mobilize Kenyans for civil disobedience if urgent measures are not taken to address growing concerns over alleged corruption, economic mismanagement, and unfulfilled campaign promises.

Speaking on Monday, November 18, the leaders lamented what they described as "oppression" and a government steering the country in the wrong direction. They called for immediate interventions to tackle widespread poverty and restore faith in public institutions.

This comes days after the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) launched a scathing critique of the government, accusing it of failing to prioritize the welfare of ordinary citizens. The bishops pointed to over-taxation, increased poverty, and a lack of accountability as signs of a leadership disconnect.

Initially, the Catholic bishops' public criticism sparked pushback from the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), whose leaders termed the remarks "disrespectful" to President Ruto. However, in a surprising twist, ACK bishops issued a statement on November 18 aligning with their Catholic counterparts, signaling a rare show of unity.

Among their shared grievances were:

- Unpaid NHIF Debts:The government owes faith-based organizations running healthcare facilities, straining critical services.

- Missionary Work Permits: A controversial hike in fees is seen as a move to curtail faith-based humanitarian efforts.

- IEBC Reconstitution Delays:Prolonged inaction on revamping the electoral commission has raised fears of electoral instability.

The clergy's intervention reflects growing public frustration and intensifies pressure on the government to act. The escalating discontent among influential religious groups, coupled with their ability to mobilize grassroots support, could mark a turning point in Kenya’s political landscape.

If the government fails to address these concerns, the threatened civil disobedience may escalate into a broader movement, with religious leaders emerging as key voices in the fight for accountability and justice.