Six Kenyan Catholic Priests Suspended Following Allegations of Abuse of Ecclesiastical Authority, Administrative Negligence and Mismanagement of Church Resources
By TUW
Six Catholic priests from Kenya’s Diocese of Maralal have been suspended following allegations of abuse of ecclesiastical authority, administrative negligence and mismanagement of church resources and property, as the diocese launches sweeping reforms aimed at strengthening accountability and discipline.
The suspensions were announced by Bishop Hieronymus Emusugut Joya during a Sunday Mass at Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Maralal. According to the bishop, the disciplinary action followed credible reports of misconduct, adding that the measures were taken in line with Canon Law to protect the integrity of the priesthood and ensure responsible stewardship of Church property.
The suspended priests are Rev. Fr. Paul Maina, Rev. Fr. Peter Musau, Rev. Fr. Stephen Lekasuyan, Rev. Fr. Peter Nderitu, Rev. Fr. Christopher Letikirich and Rev. Fr. John Dida. They will remain suspended while their respective cases are being addressed.
Alongside the suspensions, Bishop Joya introduced strict regulations for all priests serving in the diocese. The new directives prohibit priests from drinking alcohol in bars, operating private businesses unrelated to the Church, cohabiting or engaging in intimate relationships, and spending nights away from their residences without the bishop’s approval. Priests are also required to return to their residences by 7:00 p.m. each day for evening prayers.
The reforms also focus on improving financial governance across the diocese. Every parish and church institution will now be required to prepare annual budgets, undergo regular financial audits and strengthen oversight through finance councils to promote transparency and accountability in the management of church resources.
Bishop Joya said the reforms are intended to restore trust, improve pastoral leadership and reinforce discipline within the Diocese of Maralal after years of administrative and financial challenges.
