Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has defended the government against criticism from Catholic priests.

Speaking on Sunday at the African Independent Pentecostal Church (AIPCA) in Sagana, Kirinyaga County, Kindiki emphasized that the government is open to input from various groups, including the church, youth, and civil society. 

“We are not at war with the church,” Kindiki said. “We welcome criticism and advice from all quarters, including the youth, civil society, and religious institutions.”

However, Kindiki urged critics to avoid using inflammatory language or inciting divisions, stressing the importance of respectful discourse. He acknowledged the challenges facing the nation, characterizing them as “teething problems” that require collaborative solutions to improve citizens’ lives.

“Our critics should refrain from abusive language or attempts to incite others. There are challenges that Kenyans are noticing, but by working together, we can address them,” said Kindiki.

The Deputy President echoed sentiments expressed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in Embu, who called for respect and unity among leaders and citizens alike. Kindiki reiterated the need for national unity and coexistence, highlighting the importance of collaboration among leaders from different regions and backgrounds to safeguard Kenya’s progress.

Regarding government projects, Kindiki admitted that many are progressing slowly and pledged to personally assess their status in collaboration with governors, MPs, and senators to ensure smoother execution.

“Yes, many government projects are slow. As the second in command, I will be visiting these projects to understand the issues at hand and work closely with local leaders to facilitate progress,” he stated.