Archbishop Kimengich calls for peace as he exits Eldoret Diocese

Archbishop Dominic Kimengich with Catholic sisters in Eldoret /MATHEWS NDANYI

Catholic faithful and a section of leaders in North Rift have hosted a send-off ceremony for Dominic Kimengich, the archbishop (coadjutor) of Mombasa,who is set to take his new position at the Coast.

Kimengich, who hadserved as Eldoretbishop for six years before he was appointed by Pope Leo to be an assistant archbishop of Mombasa, thanked residents of the region for supporting him during his tenure. 

“I am so happy with the support and prayers people in this region accorded to me and I urge that we continue to pray for each other,” he said.

Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago and Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich were among leaders who attended the thanksgiving send-off.

Rotich praised the role played by Bishop Kimengich in working for peace and unity in the Kerio Valley region.

“Your contribution to peace in our region, especially in Kerio Valley, has been immense because we have achieved tangible progress so far,” the governor said.

Mandago praised Bishop Kimengich for being committed to serving residents of the region regardless of their religions.

In Mombasa he will serve under Archbishop Martin Kivuva and will take over when Kivuva retires.

ArchbishopKimengich said he was grateful to God for the period he served in Eldoret, during which time the Pope also created the Diocese of Kapsabet, which was carved out of Eldoret.

He prayed that God would give the Diocese of Eldoret a new bishop who would serve the region. He said it may take time, but the Pope will appoint his replacement in Eldoret.

The bishop has been outspoken on critical issues affecting the country.

Last week he expressed concern over the worsening culture of political violence perpetrated by organised goons as the country heads to the general election.

Kimengich said the country was heading to the wrong direction and the government should act with speed to restore sanity and freedoms which are provided by the constitution.

“The situation is really worrying because of the trend of goons and agents of violence creeping all over the country. It’s the right of Kenyans to talk and organise themselves at any time and anywhere as provided for in the constitution,” the archbishop said.

Kimengich wants the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and other state institutions to prepare for a credible poll where Kenyas will be free to exercise their rights and freedoms.

“Leadership is not about force but about choices. This is not the Kenya we want and we are praying for peace as we head to the next elections,” he said.

Kimengich added that Kenyans should be free to elect anyone they want without being forced or bribed.

“When we do that our elections and leadership will be credible, and that is the Kenya we want.”