Eldoret: The Catholic Diocese of Eldoret’s Bishop Dominic Kimengich has urged the State Department for Internal Security to expedite investigations into the murder of a Catholic priest who was killed in Elgeyo Marakwet while performing his duties.

According to Kenya News Agency, Bishop Dominic, joined by Auxiliary Bishop John Kiplimo Lelei, presided over a Holy Mass in memory of Fr Allois Cheruiyot Bett. The bishops, along with others from the region, extended their condolences to the priest’s family and friends. Bishop Dominic described the late priest as a dedicated individual whose efforts significantly impacted the faith of many congregants.

During the service, Bishop Kimengich called for persistent prayers and urged security agencies to ensure justice is served and the perpetrators are apprehended. He appealed to the residents of the volatile region to adhere to the law to prevent further loss of life, highlighting the numerous deaths in Kerio Valley under tragic circumstances.

The bishop stressed the importance of valuing every life in society, emphasizing that every life, including children, mothers, and all Kenyans, matters. He expressed concern over the growing disregard for life, particularly in cases of abduction and murder, urging society to protect lives, even in remote areas.

Bishop Kimengich reflected on the longstanding suffering in the region, hoping that the late priest’s life would inspire peace and mark an end to violence in Kerio Valley. He called on the government to take decisive action to restore order, warning against the dangers of allowing impunity to flourish when crimes go unpunished.

The service was attended by several governors, including Wesley Rotich of Elgeyo Marakwet, Stephen Sang of Nandi, Dr. Jonathan Chelilim Bii of Uasin Gishu, and Nandi Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot, as well as Diocese of Eldoret ACK Bishop Christopher Rutto and other dignitaries.