Eldoret Bishop Urges Anti-Corruption Action, Condemns Toxic Political Rhetoric
“Corruption continues to affect the country in a profound way. We are calling upon our leaders to demonstrate real commitment in addressing this challenge,” Bishop Dominic Kimengich
Bishop Dominic Kimengich addresses members of the press outside the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, where he spoke on corruption, national unity, and the need for responsible political leadership.
By James Gitaka
The outgoing Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Dominic Kimengich, has called on Kenya’s top leadership to take decisive and visible steps in the fight against corruption, warning that the vice continues to erode public trust and undermine national development.
Bishop Kimengich made the remarks during Easter observances after leading hundreds of faithful in the Way of the Cross, a solemn commemoration of the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. His comments come in the wake of a recent report by the United States government highlighting concerns over rising corruption levels in Kenya.
“Corruption continues to affect the country in a profound way. We are calling upon our leaders to demonstrate real commitment in addressing this challenge,” said the bishop.
He further criticized the growing culture of public confrontations among political leaders, marked by inflammatory and undignified language.
“We are calling upon our leaders to stop what we are currently witnessing—leaders referring to each other using words that do not reflect the stature of the offices they hold,” he said. “Let them unite and, in turn, unite the rest of the country so that we can build a renewed nation inspired by the death and resurrection of Christ.”
Call for Prayer Amid Rising Tensions
The bishop also urged Christians to remain steadfast in prayer, citing growing global and local tensions.
“We ask all faithful to continue praying for peace in the world—especially in the Middle East, parts of Africa experiencing conflict, and here at home where political temperatures are rising,” he said. “Peace begins with each one of us, and we must seek unity in these challenging times.”
Rising Concern Over Political Rhetoric
In recent months, Kenya has witnessed an escalation in political tensions, with senior leaders engaging in sharp exchanges during public rallies and across media platforms. Analysts warn that such rhetoric risks deepening divisions along political and ethnic lines, especially as the country navigates economic pressures and governance concerns.
Religious leaders and civil society groups have increasingly stepped in to call for restraint, urging politicians to uphold decorum and focus on issue-based engagement. Bishop Kimengich’s remarks add to a growing chorus demanding civility and national cohesion.
Corruption Concerns in International Spotlight
The bishop’s comments also follow the latest governance assessments by the United States Department of State, which flagged corruption as a persistent challenge in Kenya. The report points to weak accountability mechanisms and concerns over the enforcement of anti-corruption laws, despite ongoing reforms.
Domestically, anti-graft agencies have continued to face scrutiny over the pace and effectiveness of investigations and prosecutions, with Kenyans increasingly demanding tangible results.
Transition to Mombasa
Bishop Kimengich is set to celebrate his final Mass in Eldoret on April 19 before taking up his new role following his appointment by Pope Leo XIV as Coadjutor Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa.
He will be officially received in Mombasa on April 25, marking the beginning of his new pastoral assignment at the Coast.
He has welcomed and accepted the appointment, marking the end of his tenure in Eldoret, where he has been a prominent voice on social justice, governance, and moral leadership.
His departure comes at a time when religious leaders are increasingly being looked upon to provide moral guidance amid growing public concern over leadership conduct and accountability in the country.
About Author
