Embakasi East MP, Hon. Babu Owino in previous events// photo courtesy
On November 15, 2024, Hon. Dr. Babu Owino, the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East, issued a press statement addressing the Kenya Kwanza administration’s reaction to the recent criticisms made by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops. The bishops condemned President William Ruto’s government for fostering a culture of lies, corruption, unfulfilled promises, and misplaced priorities.
In his statement, Owino expressed disappointment with the government’s defensive posture towards the church’s constructive criticism. He pointed out the irony that the same church whose support was sought during the campaign is now being criticized for holding the government accountable. “The Catholic Church is a pillar of our society and speaks with the interest of ordinary Kenyans at heart,” he stated.
Owino emphasized that instead of dismissing the bishops’ concerns, the Kenya Kwanza administration should reflect on its policies and take corrective action. He highlighted that accountability cannot be achieved through mere press releases but requires tangible steps to address economic hardships, rising living costs, and public discontent. “Words are not substitutes for action,” he asserted, urging the government to focus on delivering results that improve the lives of Kenyans.
The bishops’ statement raised alarms about various issues affecting citizens, including rampant unemployment and a failing public health system. They accused the government of using state machinery to suppress dissent and failing to uphold its campaign promises. Archbishop Maurice Muhatia, chairperson of the KCCB, noted that many Kenyans feel abandoned by their leaders.
In response to these criticisms, President Ruto addressed graduates at Tangaza University on the same day. While acknowledging his ties to the Catholic community and mentioning that some of his children attended Catholic schools, he cautioned religious leaders against spreading misinformation. Ruto urged clergy to engage in factual discourse and collaborate with his administration for national progress.
However, Owino criticized Ruto’s approach as inadequate. He argued that dismissing legitimate concerns raised by religious leaders only exacerbates public frustration. The MP called for a renewed commitment from leaders to serve their constituents faithfully and uphold democratic principles.
The KCCB’s bold stance has struck a chord with many Kenyans who feel disillusioned by broken promises and unfulfilled pledges made during Ruto’s campaign. As tensions rise between religious leaders and government officials, it is evident that accountability and transparency are paramount for restoring public trust in leadership.
Owino concluded his statement by reiterating that leaders must rise to the challenge of being accountable to the very people they swore to serve and protect. “Anything less is a betrayal of the trust vested in them,” he stated firmly.
As this situation unfolds, it remains clear that genuine engagement between the government and civil society is essential for addressing the pressing issues facing Kenyans today. The ongoing dialogue between Babu Owino and the Catholic Bishops underscores a critical juncture in Kenya’s political landscape where citizens are yearning for meaningful reform and true representation in governance.
