By A, KNA
The Catholic church is calling on leaders across the political divide to embrace national unity and dialogue in response to the heightened political activities experienced across the country.
At the same time Kenyans have been urged to uphold constitutional values, shun violence, and champion national cohesion.
Father Paul Gitonga of the St Augustine Parish in Kiamunyi called for toning down of “incitement rhetoric,” urging a shift towards more constructive and respectful dialogue, particularly in the context of ongoing social and political divisions. This call, he said, emphasizes the need to avoid language that could incite hatred, violence, or prejudice, and instead, promote understanding and reconciliation.
Speaking during a ceremony to mark the feast of the assumption of ‘Blessed Mary Mother’ celebrations in Nakuru, Father Gitonga called on Kenyans from all walks of life to desist from inflammatory language that can exacerbate tension and hinder national cohesion.
“The church is encouraging a move away from confrontational rhetoric towards a more open and respectful exchange of ideas, even among those with differing viewpoints. The Church’s call is rooted in the belief that a society where people feel safe, respected, and included is essential for the common good,” stated the cleric.
He emphasized the Church’s role in fostering reconciliation and called for open engagement between citizens and leaders.
“Both the government and those with divergent views should embrace dialogue. Let us all preach peace and reconciliation as we are one family called Kenya regardless of our political and ethnic inclinations,” stated Bishop Gitonga.
While calling on leaders to put politics on the back burner, the clergyman noted that charged political rallies were scaring away investors, disrupting education and ruining businesses across the country, adding that it was both insensitive to Kenyans and premature to conduct campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Bishop Gitonga said currently the leaders should be preoccupied with supporting service delivery to Kenyans in healthcare, agriculture, and housing among other sectors and warned that political intolerance and public discontent risk plunging the country into chaos.
“Two wrongs can never be right,” he cautioned.
He stressed the importance of respecting the 2010 Constitution and called on youth to engage peacefully and constructively.
Bishop Gitonga also urged the media to exercise responsibility in reporting, warning against biased and inflammatory coverage.
He warned that some of the challenges the country is experiencing were being exploited by some politicians to incite division and chaos.
Bishop Gitonga observed that the youth were Kenya’s future and should not be involved in acts of violence and lawlessness.
“When we have some challenges in the country, it becomes a breeding ground for political blame games and tribal divisions. Let us not accept such tactics. It’s time for all of us to embrace dialogue,” he warned.
He pointed out that despite the country facing some challenges, citizens need to remember that Kenya possesses the potential to develop local solutions to address its problems. Adding that, citizens must not lose hope or succumb to despair.
Bishop Gitonga condemned a section of politicians for what he termed as spreading hate speech and negativity that divide the country.
Bishop Gitonga called on political leaders to show humility and respect for institutions.
He said Kenya’s democratic space allows freedom of expression but it should promote peace rather than division.