“Where Was Muheria During The Dark Days?” – Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi
As Kenya grapples with rising tensions and political discourse surrounding the country’s current leadership, the question must be asked: *Where was Archbishop Philip Muheria when the nation faced its darkest moments?* In the era of former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s regime, when bodies were being discovered in River Yala and the economy was plunging into a crisis, Muheria remained conspicuously silent. His silence, especially in the face of human rights abuses and economic mismanagement, raises important questions about the role of religious leaders in holding power to account.
*Where was Muheria when Kenyans were suffering?* This is not just a rhetorical question—it is one that demands an answer.
**The River Yala Tragedy**
Between 2017 and 2022, Kenya witnessed a chilling series of extrajudicial killings, with bodies turning up in River Yala, a grim testimony to the breakdown of law and order. The victims, many believed to be innocent civilians, were discovered with marks of torture, dumped like waste in the very river that should have been a symbol of life and renewal. These bodies became a painful symbol of a regime that appeared indifferent to the value of Kenyan lives.
During these harrowing years, Muheria, who claims to be a voice for the voiceless, was nowhere to be found. He did not condemn the killings or demand justice for the victims. As Archbishop of Nyeri, his responsibility to speak out on behalf of the oppressed was clear, yet his silence was deafening. His failure to stand up for justice when it mattered most raises serious concerns about his commitment to the values of fairness and integrity.
**Economic Crisis Under Uhuru’s Regime**
Let us not forget that the economic situation under the leadership of President Uhuru Kenyatta was nothing short of catastrophic. The once-promising economy crumbled under the weight of excessive borrowing, poor fiscal policies, and a lack of foresight. Unemployment rates soared, inflation hit Kenyans hard, and the cost of living became unbearable for millions. Yet, where was Muheria when hardworking Kenyans were crying out for help? Where was his voice when the prices of basic goods skyrocketed, and families struggled to make ends meet?
Muheria’s silence during the economic crisis speaks volumes. While the country’s youth faced joblessness, businesses were shuttered, and Kenyans were drowning in debt, he remained largely aloof, focusing on other matters. A true leader of the faith would have used their platform to speak out on behalf of the suffering masses, to challenge the government of the day, and to demand a change of course. Instead, Muheria chose to remain silent, perhaps to avoid rocking the political boat.
**The Question of Accountability**
As we continue to chart our course towards a more just and equitable Kenya, the role of our leaders—both political and religious—remains central. If we are to build a nation based on justice, fairness, and accountability, then we must hold all leaders to account for their actions, or lack thereof.
Muheria, a figure who claims to hold the moral high ground, must answer for his silence during times of national crisis. We must ask him: *Where were you when the bodies of our brothers and sisters were being dumped in River Yala? Where were you when Kenyans were losing their livelihoods?* His inaction, when it mattered most, reveals a lot about his true priorities.
In conclusion, it is not enough for leaders to speak when it is convenient or politically expedient. True leadership requires courage, a willingness to speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves, and a commitment to challenging injustice wherever it may occur. As we move forward, let us remember that silence in the face of wrongdoing is itself a form of complicity. The question remains: ‘Where was Muheria when the nation needed him most?
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