We forgive the killers, but demand justice, says family of slain priest Bett

The family of the late Catholic priest, Father Allois Bett, has publicly stated that they have forgiven those responsible for his killing in Kerio Valley, hoping that his sacrifice will bring enduring peace to the region.

During a requiem mass held at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Eldoret, led by Bishop Dominic Kimengich, Father Bett’s mother, Eunice Bender, alongside other family members, paid their respects.

Although Eunice Bender did not speak at the service, family spokesperson Amos Samoei explained that the decision to forgive the perpetrators was made to ensure a peaceful and respectful farewell for Father Bett, who is scheduled to be buried in Nandi on June 3.

Despite their forgiveness, the family expressed frustration over the slow progress in apprehending those behind the murder.

Samoei revealed that many questions remain unanswered but emphasized that the family chose to forgive just two days ago, praying that Father Bett’s spilled blood would cleanse Kerio Valley and foster peace and unity.

He raised concerns about the disparity in response times, pointing out that security agencies swiftly arrested the killers of a Member of Parliament in Nairobi within three days, using CCTV and other investigative tools, yet no similar urgency has been shown in Father Bett’s case.

"They quickly used CCTV and all available means to arrest the MP’s killers. Why can’t the same efforts be made here?" Samoei questioned.

He added that while the family, especially the mother, is deeply wounded, they remain committed to seeking justice.

In addition, Samoei urged the Marakwet community to send elders to engage with the family as a sign of reconciliation and enduring forgiveness.

Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang has called on the government to accelerate the arrest of those responsible for Father Bett’s killing, pointing out that the local community has not yet handed over the suspects as had been promised.

Earlier, Bishop Dominic Kimengich strongly condemned the ongoing violence in Kerio Valley, stating that the bandits had "crossed the red line."

He urged the government to take decisive action to stop the senseless killings in the region.

Bishop Kimengich also appealed to the security agencies to help put an end to extrajudicial killings across the country.

"Time for empty talk is over, we demand action," he declared.

"We must end these pointless killings to prevent more innocent lives from being lost."

The bishop made these remarks during the requiem mass for Father Bett, who was shot dead by bandits two weeks ago.

"They have killed children, women, and now a priest. They have crossed every red line and must be stopped," he said, expressing deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Kerio Valley despite the government’s capacity to protect its citizens.

The service was attended by several dignitaries, including Senators Jackson Mandago (Uasin Gishu) and Samson Cherargei (Nandi), as well as Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea, among others.

Earlier in the day, Father Bett’s body was transferred from the MTRH morgue to Sacred Heart Cathedral for mass and public viewing, accompanied by a procession of priests and Catholic faithful.

According to the funeral schedule, the body will then be transported by road to Holy Family Ol’Lessos Parish in Nandi County for an overnight vigil.

On June 3, public viewing and a funeral mass will be held at St. Michael’s Terige High School. After the mass, a funeral procession will escort the body to the cemetery at Ol’Lessos Parish, where Father Bett will be buried.

The funeral rites are being led by Bishop Kimengich, with top government officials and church leaders expected to attend.

Father Bett had been serving at St. Mulumba Church in Tot, Kerio Valley. He was attacked by armed assailants as he returned from a Jumuiya (small Christian community) mass in a village approximately two kilometers from the church.

Father Bett’s killing has drawn widespread condemnation and escalated tensions in Kerio Valley, where security forces are actively conducting operations to apprehend those responsible.