KENYA: Cardinal Njue calls for speedy investigation into Murder of Priest
The Archbishop of Nairobi, His Eminence John Cardinal Njue, has urged Government of Kenya and other relevant authorities to speedily investigate the death of Kinoo Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. John Njoroge Muhia, who was shot dead by unknown gunmen in Kinoo, Nairobi on 10th, December, 2018 while on his way to bank Sunday collection.
Speaking during funeral Mass of Fr. Njoroge at St. Mary’s Msongari Grounds, Cardinal Njue who consoled the family and the Christians for the loss of their son, brother and priest, condemned the killing saying it is unfortunate that some people have abrogated themselves the role over life and death.
“The Catechism of the Catholic Church says God created man to know him, to love him and to serve him while in this world, and in the end to be happy with him in eternity,” said Cardinal Njue. “The end, however, is not determined by us or by the individual. Time comes when one must departs. However, no one has the right to take any person’s life, only God has responsibility over life.”
The Cardinal said the death of Fr Njoroge was painful and untimely, adding that he understood the pain that the family and members of the Clergy were feeling over the death of their son, brother and colleague.
“It is really unfortunate for all those who were involved in this either directly or indirectly, and we hope that a moment is coming when the truth will come out,” said Cardinal Njue. “I hope that this matter will be handled in a transparent way so as to give consolation to the family. It is not the easiest of situations when you see your son tragically gone. We ask you to remain calm and let us all pray for him. It is not an easy occasion, it is very weighty and painful, particularly when we hear about the circumstances under which Father Njoroge left us. We ask you to remain calm and let us all pray for him.”
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Clergy of Nairobi Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Stephen Mbugua, alleged that the death of his fellow priest was premeditated, well planned and executed by a group of people who were unhappy with his rather strict administration. Fr. Mbugua revealed that the Late Fr. Njoroge had confided that he was facing challenges from the Church leadership in Kinoo Parish, which made his work difficult.
“During some of our monthly meetings as clergy of the Archdiocese of Nairobi, he expressed the difficult moments he was experiencing with his Parish leaders,” said Fr. Mbugua. “At one time, he even said he was ready to become a sacrificial lamb, but little did he know it would come that soon. Our brother died a very painful death. Our wish and prayer to God is that he be rewarded with beatific vision. He died serving the people of God diligently.”
Fr. Mbugua warned that leadership in the Church is about service, not fame, influence or monetary gains.
The fraternity of the Archdiocese of Nairobi condemned the heinous and cowardice act meted on Fr. Njoroge, noting that there is rampant increase in senseless killing of people in the country.
Fr. Njoroge was laid to rest at St. Mary’s Msongari Cemetery.
May His Soul Rest In Eternal Peace
∽End∽
By Rose Achiego and Samuel Waweru, Waumini Communications KCCB
