Catholic Bishops urge Gen Z to drop hard stance, commend Ruto for listening

Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops is now appealing to Kenyan youth to drop their hardline stance and embrace dialogue for the sake of the country.

“We request that you open up yourselves for inclusive conversations so that you are also enriched by perspectives that may not be obvious to you. In doing this you become attentive to the laws of God and bear true respect for others,” the Catholic Bishops said at a press conference Monday.

They commended the youth, Gen Z, for articulating many issues that Kenyans resonate with over the last couple of weeks noting that their actions have been instrumental in driving change and highlighting social ills in the country.

“You have elicited a national even global conversation on what it means to be a democracy, the kind of leadership that should spur creativity and opportunities for citizens, the values and principles that define our public institutions. We thank you and continue to support you in aspiring for good in our society,” they said

The catholic bishops argued that the Gen Z message is home and they now ought to give room for issues they raised to be dealt with, insisting this can only happen if Kenyans agree to engage each other without apportioning blame.

“We all have made mistakes, no one can claim to be faultless. Allow us also to correct you on some of the vulgar and improper slogans that have been used in these moments,” they said in a statement read by their chairperson Most Rev. Maurice Muhatia Makumba,

“We ask you to be cautious that you do not hurt others, which might turn against your great agenda for a better country. Be inclusive and supportive of constructive ideas and conversations,” they appealed

While appealing to the youth to give dialogue a chance, the Bishops said the President had heard their cry.

“We commend President William Ruto, for finally listening to the cry of the people, which has been brought out sharply by the Gen Zee protests. Specifically, by declining to sign the controversial Finance Bill, and dissolving the Cabinet to give space for a more competent, dependable and leaner team that can deliver to Kenyans,” they said