NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has spoken out following the shocking deaths of two Catholic priests, condemning the killings as acts “veiled with malicious intent and mystery.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, the bishops expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the deaths of Father James Maina of the Nyahururu Diocese and Father Alois Bett of the Eldoret Diocese, describing the back-to-back incidents as a disturbing escalation of insecurity targeting clergy.
“We, as the Catholic Bishops of Kenya under the KCCB, send our sincere condolences… These deaths have shaken our Church and country, leaving behind a trail of sorrow, fear, and unanswered questions,” the statement read.
Fr. Maina died while undergoing treatment, with the Church pointing to suspicions of kidnapping and poisoning.
Fr. Bett was gunned down in Kerio Valley by unidentified assailants shortly after ministering to vulnerable communities — a crime the bishops described as “murder most foul.”
“How can it be that security cannot be guaranteed for those serving in these remote areas? Who is really behind such a meticulously executed murder?” the bishops asked.
The KCCB challenged the state to launch thorough investigations, saying the incidents reflect a disturbing normalization of violence and impunity — particularly against religious leaders who work closely with the poor and forgotten.
“The work carried out by our Catholic priests goes beyond religion; it is about healing the wounded, serving the marginalized, and giving hope where none exists,” they said. “To lose such servants of God under violent and suspicious circumstances is unacceptable.”
Their statement also criticized what they described as a broader national culture of political expediency, where life is treated as disposable. “We are totally dismayed by how cheap life has become… where murders are used carelessly for political ends.”
While calling for justice, the bishops also extended forgiveness, saying they were praying for the conversion of the perpetrators. “May God turn their hearts. May we be given the grace to forgive even as we seek the truth.”
The Church said it expects a comprehensive report from authorities in the shortest time possible, and urged Kenyans to stand in solidarity with the grieving families and dioceses.
“We know how much pain they are going through. We join the faithful across the country in praying for the souls of these priests. Eternal rest grant unto them, oh Lord.”
