The move to recycle old members of the Cabinet could spark a fresh wave of demonstrations in the country, Bishop Cleophas Osese has warned.
Osese termed the move by President William Ruto as cosmetic, adding that Kenyans were disappointed by the newly appointed Cabinet Secretaries.
“The new list of Cabinet appointees does not meet the public expectations and we hope that Parliament will do their part during the vetting process,” the Nakuru-based bishop told the press.
He spoke two days after the President appointed 11 members of the Cabinet in the first phase.
The bishop also took issue with the proposal to form a government of national unity, saying this would water down the spirit of democracy.
“A country should have a vocal opposition and we are wondering whose interests these politicians are serving as they seek a government of national unity,” he said.
The move was meant to weaken the opposition and should be ignored as this was against the spirit of the constitution.
The church was fully behind the demos by Gen Z, the bishop said, while condemning looting and the excessive use of force by police which led to loss of life.
“As we call for peaceful demonstrations, we are also calling on the community to remember the old who have been forgotten and suffering due to poverty.”
The bishop was speaking in Kinungi, Naivasha, after distributing food and clothes to the elderly.
During the drive, Ethel Foundation's Jude Otogo, said they were supporting the elderly through nutrition, health checks and advocacy.
“We are working in five counties and we are marking this day by supporting the elderly who have been abused, violated and neglected.”
This was echoed by Hellen Kuria from Kenya Community Development, who identified neglect as one of the major challenges facing the elderly.
Beneficiary Margaret Wambui termed the visit as God-sent, saying many of the old were undergoing untold suffering.
“We thank the church and donors who have come to our rescue at these hard times when many of the elderly are perceived to be a bother and forgotten,” she said.
