The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has condemned continued incidents of abductions, enforced disappearances and harassment of human rights defenders, raising concerns over alleged involvement of armed individuals working alongside police officers.
The bishops warned that violations of freedom of expression and association were threatening democratic participation as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.
The religious leaders said civil society organisations, journalists and human rights defenders have constitutional rights to raise issues of national importance and express concerns without facing intimidation or harassment.
They expressed particular concern over incidents in which armed individuals allegedly work in collaboration with police officers to carry out violations.
The bishops also accused some police officers of watching as goons harass people exercising their constitutional right to freedom of expression.
"What is of more concern is that some of these incidents are carried out by armed people in collaboration with the police," the conference said.
The religious leaders condemned the violations, insisting that Kenyans must be allowed to exercise their freedoms as part of building a vibrant democratic society.
They maintained that civil society organisations have a legitimate role in raising concerns affecting the country and should not be intimidated for exercising their constitutional rights.
The bishops also defended media freedom, noting that journalists have both the privileges and obligations that come with practising their profession.
They called on security agencies to apply the law impartially and avoid favouring particular political candidates or affiliations.
The conference warned that selective enforcement of the law could undermine public confidence in security institutions and weaken the freedoms necessary for democratic participation.
However, the bishops also urged Kenyans to exercise their freedoms responsibly by avoiding inciteful, spiteful, tribal, hateful or demeaning statements.
They cautioned that inflammatory public statements could deepen divisions and threaten the peace needed as political activities increase ahead of the next general election.
Their concerns come as Kenya prepares for the 2027 elections, a period in which political competition and public participation are expected to intensify.
The bishops have repeatedly called for the rejection of political violence, intimidation and threats to life, urging leaders to protect the dignity and rights of all Kenyans.
They further appealed to political actors and their supporters to maintain civility in public discourse, warning that personal attacks and offensive language could create an environment conducive to hatred and division.
The conference called for responsible leadership and respect for constitutional freedoms, insisting that security agencies must protect citizens without discrimination.
The bishops said the country must prioritise justice, accountability and peaceful participation rather than allow violations of individual freedoms to undermine its democratic institutions.
