Politicians should refrain from inflammatory language that could stir animosity among Kenyans ahead of the 2027 general elections.
On Monday, the Pwani Patriotic Religious Leaders (PPRL) said careless utterances by politicians could inadvertently incite the public.
“We strongly condemn any political remarks that incite fear, hatred, or violence,” said Sheikh Abu Qatada, chair of the PPRL.
The cleric said Kenya should not take peace for granted, warning that neighbouring countries that did so are now facing regret.
“Kenya belongs to all of us and peace is a national treasure that must be protected at all costs.”
Speaking at a press conference in Mombasa, Qatada emphasised that religious leaders have a solemn duty to foster harmony and stability within communities.
His sentiments come amidst rising political tensions in the country. Critics of the government have complained of intimidation by various state agencies, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.
On Sunday, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya was arrested by EACC officers and his Kitale home raided.
The operation was met with resistance from Kitale youth, who reportedly destroyed four EACC vehicles.
The exact reason for Natembeya’s arrest and questioning and what the EACC officers were seeking, remains unclear.
Former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, has repeatedly warned of potential violence in the 2027 elections.
On Monday, Gachagua claimed there was a plot to assassinate him, saying state actors had tried methods including biochemical weapons, to silence him.
But Qatada said Gachagua’s referencing of the upcoming polls to the 2007 general elections, which were followed by violence that claimed over 1,300 lives and displaced more than 500,000 people, was inappropriate.
“Such comparisons are deeply troubling. The pain of 2007 remains fresh in our national memory. It is unfortunate for a former leader to make statements that may be perceived as insensitive to the suffering that so many endured.”
The PPRL called on security agencies to investigate and prosecute any leader whose utterances could incite chaos.
“No one is above the law. While we respect freedom of speech, it must be exercised responsibly. Political competition should never come at the cost of our nation’s harmony,” the Sheikh said.
He urged leaders and citizens to embrace peaceful dialogue, mutual respect and justice as guiding principles in addressing political differences.
“Let us remember that the true strength of Kenya lies in our unity and that peace must always prevail above all else.”
Despite its diverse ethnic composition, Kenya is one country united by a common flag, he added.
“We are one people and we must always seek to build bridges, not barriers, between communities. We denounce any language or action that risks sowing division among Kenyans.”
The PPRL emphasised that upholding and respecting Kenya’s independent institutions, particularly the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, which is constitutionally mandated to oversee elections, is crucial for national peace.
“We respectfully urge all political leaders to allow institutions like the IEBC to operate independently and without undue pressure,” Qatada stated.
“Opposition and criticism are part of democracy, but they should never be used to intimidate public servants or erode public confidence.”
by BRIAN OTIENO
