The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops(KCCB) on Thursday November 12, 2026 issued a strong State of the Nation address message ahead of 2027 general polls.
In a statement undersigned by the Bishops led by their Chair Most Rev Maurice Muhatia Makumba who is also the Archbishop Kisumu Archdiocese, the Bishops who addressed press at the John Cardinal Njue Pastoral Centre in Embu, called for a just, peaceful, and united Kenya ahead of next year’s 2027 General Elections.
The Bishops he expressed gratitude for the peace and resilience of Kenyans while offering urgent counsel to citizens, political leaders, and state institutions.
On the issues of youth, the Bishops commended young people for their growing civic awareness and urged them to take active, responsible roles in shaping the country’s future.
They encouraged every eligible young person to acquire an identification card and register to vote so they can elect leaders of their choice.
At the same time, the Bishops warned youth against being lured by money into political violence or lawlessness, urging them instead to use their creativity and social media skills to champion peace and protect one another.
Turning to political leaders and aspirants, the Bishops called for civility and decency in public discourse.
Noting that the official campaign period has not yet begun, they reminded politicians that offensive language, personal attacks, and polarizing rhetoric undermine national morals and sow the seeds of hate speech.
They invited all aspirants, especially presidential candidates, to make a public commitment to peaceful and respectful campaigning.
In addition, the Bishops urged all Kenyan voters to look beyond political noise, evaluate leaders based on their track records, and discern carefully so they can elect credible, sincere representatives.
The Bishops also issue a firm directive regarding the sanctity of places of worship.
Emphasizing that churches are sacred spaces where people of all backgrounds come to find peace rather than political platforms, they reiterate that no political addresses will be allowed in any Catholic church across the country, instructing all priests to enforce this rule diligently.
On national governance and electoral preparedness, the Bishops called upon the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to uphold its independence, resist external manipulation, and put clear, transparent systems in place to earn public trust ahead of the polls.
They similarly urged the Judiciary to dispense justice with impartiality.
Furthermore, the Bishops express deep concern over threats to freedom of speech and media freedom, strongly condemning abductions, enforced disappearances, and the harassment of human rights defenders, while calling on security organs to enforce the law without political bias.
Regarding legislation, the Bishops cautioned Parliament against introducing divisive laws at this critical hour, specifically criticizing proposals that would ban the livestreaming of presidential vote tallies and weaken public trust.
They also voiced concern over the six Education Bills currently before the National Assembly, noting that certain provisions depart from stakeholder consultations and risk weakening long-standing educational institutions.
In conclusion, the Bishops thanked the clergy, religious leaders, civil society, and everyday Kenyans who continue to work quietly for justice and peace.
And as the festive season approaches, they appealed to all citizens to practice discipline and road safety, avoiding drunk and careless driving to curb road accidents.
The clergy further urged the nation to choose dialogue over confrontation, service over self-interest, and solidarity over division, wishing all Kenyans a merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
