Bishops warn Kenya slipping into chaos, urge peace over protests

Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit. [File, Standard]

Anglican bishops have called for an end to protests, warning that Kenya is slipping into chaos and lawlessness as violence and political thuggery rise.

Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit said the country must "pause" and reflect on its direction, urging leaders and citizens to consider whether Kenya is on a path to life or death.

"We are seeing our beloved country slowly slipping into unrest, thuggery and chaos," said Ole Sapit.

Recent protests have seen the killing of 50 people within a month during demonstrations across the country.

Protests on Monday, July 7, escalated despite police closing major roads leading to Nairobi's central business district.

Looting and destruction of property were witnessed during the Saba Saba protests, with businesses counting millions in losses.

President William Ruto has called for restraint, warning that the government will use the full force of the law in dealing with perpetrators. He has described the events as terror and warned that those found culpable will pay the price.

Ole Sapit urged the government to protect lives and property, avoid excessive force and charge those responsible for extrajudicial killings and looting.

At the same time, he rejected the 'shoot to kill' order, saying police must act within the law.

"We condemn recent events of lawlessness which have seen loss of lives, destruction of properties and closure of businesses," noted Ole Sapit.

The bishops called on the opposition to promote unity and avoid ethnic mobilisation. They also urged politicians to stop holding public gatherings, warning that such meetings fuel division.

"While demonstrations are a democratic right, we urge organisers to cease protests due to their deadly and destructive outcomes," explained Ole Sapit.

"Let calm prevail and let love for country and neighbour guide us," he added.