Catholic bishops demand inquiry into death of two priests

The Kenya Conference of Catholic Churches (KCCB) is demanding inquiries into the recent untimely deaths of Reverend James Maina and Revered Alois Bett.

In a statement, the bishops, led by Most Reverend Maurice Muhatia Makumba, said the church was greatly saddened by the sudden deaths of two Catholic priests in quick succession, which have led to a sense of insecurity and helplessness created by such incidents against the servants of God.

“We are greatly saddened by the sudden deaths of two Catholic priests in quick succession. We demand a deep inquiry into these deaths, to reveal the real circumstances and motives, to ensure the security and safety of our priests and all Kenyans going forward”, the bishops said.

Reverend Makumba said there was need to reveal the real circumstances and motives behind their premature deaths to ensure the security and safety of all priests in the country.

While mourning with the families and friends, Reverend Makumba noted that the Catholic KCCB is disturbed by the deaths as they call for justice.

“We, on our part we pray not just for justice, but that mercy should prevail in our hearts. May God turn the hearts of those who have carried out these crimes to conversion. May God grant us the grace to forgive those who have taken the lives of our brothers. We look forward to a comprehensive report of these incidents in the shortest time”, they added.

Father Maina died while undergoing treatment, in what appears to be a case of possible kidnapping and poisoning.

On the other hand, Father Alois Cheruiyot Bett died on May 22, after being shot and killed by bandits in Kerio Valley, Elgeyo Marakwet, while on his pastoral mission.

“This is murder most foul, and cries to God against its perpetrators. How can it be that security can’t be guaranteed for those serving in these remote areas? Who is really behind such a meticulously executed murder? Reverend Makumba.

“We as Catholic Bishops are totally dismayed by how cheap life has become, where murders and deaths are taken lightly, and used carelessly for political expediency. The work carried out by our Catholic priests goes beyond the service of religion and evangelisation. It reaches out to caring for the marginalised, the forgotten and the sick, to bring them hope that does not disappoint”, he regretted.