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

Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett, a Kenyan priest, was murdered in an ambush, raising concerns about safety in Eldoret. Bishop Dominic Kimengich suggests his death could inspire change towards peace, while the local community faces increased violence leading to school closures. Authorities promise enhanced security amid fears for non-local professionals.

The shocking murder of Kenyans priest Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett has raised alarm in the impoverished region of Eldoret, which grapples with banditry issues. The 52-year-old cleric was killed in a brazen ambush on May 22 after conducting Mass. Gunmen struck him with two bullets, resulting in immediate death. Community members suspect bandits might have misinterpreted his actions, believing he was a spy for local security forces.

On the same tragic day as Fr. Bett’s death, another priest, Fr. John Maina Ndegwa, was being laid to rest after an attack of his own. This raises concerns about the growing violence against clergy in the area. Bishop Dominic Kimengich of Eldoret remarked that this violence could ironically serve as a catalyst for a new beginning. During a requiem mass held for Fr. Bett, Kimengich expressed a belief that perhaps divine intervention is present in these tragic events.

The bishop eloquently stated, “We believe that there is a reason behind everything that happens. It could be that God is talking to us.” The bishop connects Fr. Bett’s death to a broader message of peace, echoing sentiments that his martyrdom could pave the way for change in Kerio Valley. He emphasized that the blood of such individuals should not be shed in vain and depicted it as a “seed for new life.”

While calling for urgent actions, he also pointed out the repercussions this incident may have on the presence of priests in the area. “Right now, chances are no priest wants to go to the region because they don’t feel safe. That is the ripple effect of this incident,” he warned, signaling that the insecurity should be taken seriously by all levels of leadership.

Schools in the area have closed their doors due to increased violence, with reports indicating that many teachers are fleeing. The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers and the Kenya National Union of Teachers have supported the closure until calm returns. John Cheberi from KNUT stressed that the fear among educators, particularly non-locals, is at an all-time high.

“After a priest, a symbol of peace killed, what will it mean for the teachers who come from other regions?” Cheberi lamented. He voiced concerns about tribal undertones in the conflicts, highlighting the dangers posed to non-indigenous professionals in the region. Such patterns seem to be pushing these essential service providers away.

On the law enforcement side, Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat assured the public that measures are being put in place to enhance the security of schools and provide reassurance. He declared, “We want to assure everyone… that we have provided adequate security, and learning should go on.”

This distressing trend of violence against priests in Kenya is not new. Historical accounts evidence a series of tragic events targeting clergy, often linked to banditry or cover-ups of darker activities. As far back as 2000, cases of priests found lifeless under suspicious circumstances emerged. In more recent years, various acts of violence against clergymen have continued to occur, many associated with robbery or efforts to suppress dissenters.

As the community mourns the loss of Fr. Bett, there lies hope that perhaps his life and death may serve as a call to action. The higher authorities must now step up and address the escalating insecurity that plagues the people. If change is to come, it may just be borne from the tragedy of losing individuals who dedicate their lives to peace and service.

Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett’s tragic murder highlights the pressing issue of insecurity in Eldoret, Kenya, raising serious questions about the safety of clergy and other non-locals. Bishop Kimengich emphasizes that this violence could serve as a turning point for addressing safety in the region. With schools closing and police initiatives ramping up, the community is left grappling with the ripple effects of such violence. Unless systemic changes occur, the cycle of fear and loss may continue.

Original Source: www.catholicworldreport.com