In a fervent plea echoing the sentiments of justice and equity, religious leaders from diverse faith backgrounds convened at the 4th National Dialogue Conference held at Ufungamano House over the past two days. With a resounding call for reforms rooted in the needs of the people, the conference served as a platform for impassioned discussions on key issues affecting Kenya’s socio-political landscape.
Drawing inspiration from biblical and Islamic teachings emphasizing fairness and accountability in governance, delegates from the National Council of Churches of Kenya, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, and the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims underscored the imperative for reforms guided by the aspirations of the Kenyan populace.
The conference’s introduction emphasised the foundational values embedded in Kenya’s National Anthem and Constitution, emphasizing justice, unity, liberty, and democracy as fundamental pillars for the nation’s progress.
The delegates expressed profound sorrow over the loss of over 200 lives due to ongoing floods ravaging various parts of the country. With hundreds of thousands displaced and livelihoods shattered, the religious leaders extended their solidarity to the affected families and communities.
Places of worship across Kenya opened their doors to provide shelter and support, while congregations mobilized efforts to collect relief materials for those in need.
Amidst the ongoing doctors’ strike causing untold suffering and preventable deaths, the religious leaders issued a poignant appeal to national and county governments as well as medical practitioners to engage in sincere dialogue. The dire consequences of the strike underscored the urgent need for a resolution to prevent further loss of lives.
Highlighting the constitutional mandate of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in managing elections, the religious leaders voiced concern over the prolonged absence of a properly constituted commission.
The failure to appoint commissioners has led to a state of constitutional crisis, jeopardizing democratic processes and disenfranchising citizens in various constituencies and wards across the country.
Critiquing the elitist nature of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) and its recommendations, the religious leaders called for a reform process that genuinely reflects the concerns and aspirations of ordinary Kenyans. Emphasizing transparency and public engagement, they urged parliamentary speakers to ensure accessibility of NADCO’s report to all citizens and facilitate nationwide feedback mechanisms to inform policy reforms.
With proposed amendments to the Constitution of Kenya, the religious leaders advocated for a participatory process culminating in a referendum.
They urged Parliament to enact legislation that ensures inclusivity and reflects the will of the people in shaping the nation’s constitutional framework.
Encouraging active citizen participation, the religious leaders implored Kenyans to familiarize themselves with ongoing reform initiatives and attend public forums. They committed to leveraging their platforms to educate and empower citizens in shaping the country’s future.
Highlighting the persistent failure to implement the two-thirds gender rule, the religious leaders called upon Parliament to prioritize gender inclusivity in elective and appointive positions. They emphasized the imperative of upholding constitutional provisions safeguarding the rights of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in governance structures.
In a stirring call to action, the religious leaders urged Kenyans to champion people-driven reforms and resist elitist agendas that prioritize political interests over the welfare of the populace.
Embracing the values of justice, unity, and democracy, they invoked the national anthem’s call to collective responsibility in safeguarding Kenya’s future.
