Religious leaders in Kilifi County on Wednesday called on Kenyans to uphold peace and harmony during the holy seasons of Ramadan and Lent.
Led by Bishop Willybard Lagho of the Catholic Diocese of Malindi, clerics from both Christian and Muslim communities emphasized unity and urged citizens to put aside religious differences at this critical time.
The leaders, who addressed a joint press conference at the Catholic Institute at the start of the two religious observances, also appealed to political leaders to stop incitement and instead champion peace.
Bishop Lagho, who is also the National Chairman of the Interreligious Council of Kenya, stressed the importance of dialogue and security.
“Security is a very important issue, which requires deep thought and concerted efforts. We urge our political, religious and community leaders to build brotherhood and develop alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
He reminded them that Lent is a period when Christians are reminded to draw close to God with all their hearts, which, he noted, involves living in peace with one another.
“Kwaresma is not just abstaining from food alone; it also means reviving the good reputations of humans in society,” he said.
The Chairman of the Council of Imams and Preachers, Malindi branch, Sheikh Masoud Ali, highlighted the rare convergence of the two fasting seasons.
“This is the first time that Ramadan and Lent are starting on the same day. We are all children of Adam and all of us live in this country. Therefore, we should not destroy our country for anything – religion, politics or tribe,” he said.
The chairman of the Coast Interfaith Council, Rev. Paul Mutunga, echoed the call for harmony.
“Lent and Ramadan are ways of human beings drawing closer to God through prayer and humility. I believe that even the pastoralists and farmers who have been feuding in Chakama are also religious people. They should therefore shun confrontations and live harmoniously by seeking amicable solutions to their differences,” he said.
Lent, a 40-day season in the Christian calendar, is devoted to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, culminating in Easter. It begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Thursday evening, the eve of Good Friday.
On the other hand, Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is regarded as the holiest month in Islam and is observed worldwide through fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
By Emmanuel Masha
