NCCK CALLS FOR NATIONAL REFORMATION AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT IN WAKE OF POLITICAL TENSIONS.

BY NJOKI KARANJA. 

The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has issued a compelling call for national reformation and greater youth empowerment following a two-day statutory meeting held at Jumuia Conference and Country Home, Limuru. The NCCK's Executive Committee underscored the urgency of reshaping Kenya’s identity, ethos, and future, especially in light of the contentious Finance Bill 2024 and recent police brutality during demonstrations.



In a significant development, the NCCK met with President William Ruto to express concerns over the government's handling of public dissent. The President pledged to withdraw the Finance Bill 2024, cease police brutality, and refrain from deploying the military. The NCCK has shared the memorandum presented to the President, emphasizing the need for inclusive governance.

Addressing Kenya’s Youthful Demographics

Acknowledging that 79% of Kenya’s population is under 35, the NCCK highlighted the acute deprivation faced by the youth in terms of education, skills, and employment. They warned of the potential for social chaos if these issues are not addressed. The NCCK committed to several initiatives:

Establishing Centers of Excellence: These centers will provide skills and opportunities for dignified livelihoods and community resilience.

Youth-Led Programs: Member churches will develop programs focusing on youth leadership and involvement.

Economic Forums:Organizing local economic forums to address national economic challenges and solutions.

Budget Reviews: Increasing resources for youth programs within churches.

Capacity Building: Enhancing citizen participation and public accountability through capacity-building efforts.

 Listening to the People

The NCCK expressed deep sorrow over the deaths caused by police actions during peaceful demonstrations. They condemned the police brutality and criticized Members of Parliament for passing the Finance Bill 2024 despite public opposition. The NCCK called for a special parliamentary session to repeal the bill in response to the President's memorandum.

 Demanding No Further Bloodshed

The NCCK urged the government to respect the right to peaceful protest and to release all youths arrested during demonstrations. They condemned the deployment of the military in Nairobi, demanding adherence to court orders and lawful conduct. The NCCK announced a seven-day mourning period starting June 28 to honor those who died exercising their right to protest.

Reconstituting the IEBC

To ensure electoral integrity, the NCCK urged President Ruto and relevant stakeholders to expedite the appointment of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) commissioners. The NCCK emphasized the need for a fair and timely boundary review process.



The NCCK's call for action is a significant step towards national unity and progress. They urged all Kenyans to contribute to building a just, peaceful, and prosperous nation, aligning with the ideals of the national anthem. "Let us all play our part in building the nation we aspire for," the NCCK concluded.

Popular posts from this blog

KICHAKA PATROL DRIVES CHANGE IN NORTHERN KENYA WITH LIFE-SAVING OUTREACH IN REMOTE REGIONS.

GENERAL PETROLEUM GMBH FACES CRIMINAL Charges OVER FAKE GM CERTIFICATION AND SUBSTANDARD OIL PRODUCTS.

KENYAN INNOVATOR UNVEILS GROUNDBREAKING TECHNOLOGY TO REMOVE HEAVY METALS FROM WASTEWATER.