Over the years, in Kenya’s charged political landscape, few institutions have commanded as much respect, fear, and influence as the Catholic Church. In the 1980s and 1990s, Catholic bishops spoke out against authoritarianism and corruption and consequently paid a heavy price. Maurice Otunga, a towering figure in Kenya’s Catholic history, called for accountability and justice at a time when dissent was dangerous. However, while the Catholic Church has often positioned itself as a defender of the marginalized, it has not been immune to criticism. On many occasions, the Catholic Church has had to contend with questions and scrutiny about its wealth and land holdings.
