The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has urged President William Ruto to repeal the Finance Act, 2023, in an effort to address the ongoing political impasse in the country. The bishops made this plea during a gathering in Karen, where they also called for peaceful demonstrations and emphasized the need for dialogue between President Ruto and Azimio Leader Raila Odinga.

Archbishop Anthony Muheria, the leader of KCCB, expressed concern about the high cost of living and its impact on individuals and families. He stated that the recently enacted Finance Act placed an unsustainable burden on already distressed citizens, particularly those in the low-income bracket. In light of this, he appealed to President Ruto to repeal the act and find alternative solutions within the current economic context.

Muheria acknowledged the frustrations of Kenyans who have taken to the streets to protest, emphasizing that the high cost of living was a major driving force behind these demonstrations. He highlighted the need for the government to address citizens' grievances and ensure that they can afford essential goods and services, find stable employment, and avoid financial hardship.

Mombasa Archbishop Kivuva Musonde echoed Muheria's call for peaceful protests and urged demonstrators to express their concerns without causing harm to themselves or others. He condemned any form of ethnic-based violence witnessed in certain parts of the country, emphasizing the importance of non-violent ways to demand change.

In addition, Musonde appealed to both Raila Odinga and William Ruto to embrace dialogue as a means to resolve the ongoing political impasse. He suggested that parliamentary bipartisan talks should resume, this time involving religious leaders, eminent individuals, and relevant organizations to foster a broader and inclusive discussion.

The Catholic Bishops' plea for the repeal of the Finance Act and their call for peaceful protests and dialogue aim to address the concerns and grievances of Kenyans, with the ultimate goal of fostering unity, stability, and a better standard of living for all citizens.