Bishop Says Murder of Kenyan Priest Will Be “a Seed for New Life”

Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett was murdered in a bandit ambush in Kakbiken, Kenya. His death highlights severe insecurity in the region, prompting calls for justice from Bishop Dominic Kimengich. Educational institutions have shuttered in response to rising violence, further exacerbating the fear among locals, especially teachers. This incident may serve as a catalyst for urgent security reforms to restore peace.

The recent murder of Kenyan priest Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett has shed light on a region grappling with poverty and rampant banditry. Fr. Bett, who served as pastor at the newly formed St. Matthias Mulumba Tot parish in the Diocese of Eldoret, was fatally shot in an ambush shortly after celebrating Mass in Kakbiken on May 22. Gunmen reportedly fired two bullets, one striking him in the neck and the other in the stomach, resulting in his immediate death.

Witnesses and locals perceive this heinous act as a direct result of Fr. Bett’s supposed role as a spy for security forces—bandidts apparently suspected him of alerting authorities. Richard Ruto, a catechist at the parish, described how detectives had visited the priest’s residence days before his death, likely raising suspicions among the bandits. Ruto believes this may have led the attackers to mistakenly target Fr. Bett.

Tragically, Fr. Bett’s killing coincided with the burial of another priest, Fr. John Maina Ndegwa, who had died from injuries sustained in a similar attack. Bishop Dominic Kimengich of Eldoret mentioned the potential of Fr. Bett’s death as a catalyst for change. During a requiem mass on May 25, he reflected, “We believe that there is a reason behind everything that happens… Fr. Allois’ blood… will not go for nothing.”

The bishop emphasized the need for justice, expressing concerns that this tragic event may deter other priests from serving in the dangerous area. “If priests say that they are not feeling safe, I can’t force them to go there,” he remarked. He continuously reminded authorities that the situation is dire and requires urgent attention from both church and state leaders.

In light of the violence, schools have closed, causing widespread educational disruption. Notably, 54 primary and 19 secondary schools shut their doors due to concerns over safety. Educational unions, including KUPPET and KNUT, have endorsed suspending classes until peace is restored, further highlighting the urgent need for security in the region.

John Cheberi, the branch secretary general of KNUT, underscored the fear running rampant among non-local teachers. He stated, “You know that these criminals are now targeting non-locals. Our teachers are living in fear… If a priest, a symbol of peace, can be targeted and killed, what will happen to teachers?” This sentiment speaks to a larger issue; the complications of tribal tensions in the area have intensified attacks on non-indigenous individuals.

In response, police officials have sought to reassure citizens of their safety. Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat announced that additional security measures have been implemented. “We want to assure everyone that we have provided adequate security, and learning should go on,” he stated, hopeful for a return to normalcy.

This latest incident is part of a troubling pattern of attacks on clergy in Kenya, which has seen multiple priests murdered over the years by bandits or in retaliatory violence. Reports paint a grim picture of systemic issues intertwined with rising violence against religious leaders, often indicative of deeper societal malfunctions. The community grapples with fear and uncertainty as authorities search for solutions to restore peace and safety.

The assassination of Fr. Bett marks a sore spot in Kenya’s ongoing battle against crime and insecurity, with many praying that this tragedy might inspire change, shaking both the community and leaders awake from complacency in tackling these deep-seated issues.

The murder of Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett has sent shockwaves through the Diocese of Eldoret, highlighting the severe challenges posed by violence and insecurity in the region. The bishop’s call for justice and reformed security measures resonates deeply in a community yearning for peace. This tragedy, which has disrupted education and increased fears among locals, may serve as a catalyst for change, but only if action is taken swiftly and decisively. The fight against violence targeting clergy must not only focus on immediate repercussions but weave a broader understanding of safety and coexistence in the community.

Original Source: www.catholicworldreport.com