Religious leaders in Kendu Bay subcounty, Homa Bay County, have called on political leaders to embrace peaceful campaigns and avoid divisive rhetoric.
Speaking during Eid-ul-Adha celebrations at the Kendu Bay Show Ground, the clerics asked the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to curb hate speech among politicians by putting in place disciplinary measures against those found engaging in such speeches.
Led by Imam Omar Oginga, the leaders emphasized the importance of political tolerance and national unity, warning that inflammatory remarks by politicians could threaten peace and cohesion in the country.
“We are asking politicians to maintain peaceful campaigns while selling their manifestos. Campaigns should be meaningful and issue-based, not platforms where leaders insult and attack one another,” Oginga said.
The Imam further urged IEBC to establish strict measures to bar politicians engaging in hate speech from contesting elective seats.
“The IEBC should start putting measures in place to block candidates who sow hatred among citizens from vying for elective posts. This is the only way to tame political leaders who like making hate speeches,” he added.
Oginga further noted that remarks made by some leaders in recent times were unhealthy for national cohesion and appealed to politicians to promote messages that unite Kenyans instead of dividing them.
“Elections come and go, but we will still remain here as citizens of Kenya. Let our politicians make comments that unite our country,” he said.
Homa Bay County SUPKEM Secretary Nuhu Abdul Masud urged leaders to use the Eid-ul-Adha celebrations as an opportunity to forgive one another and promote peace across the country and the world.
“There is nothing more important than peace in a society. We appeal to political groups and all citizens to embrace peace and coexistence,” Masoud stressed.
The two leaders reiterated that maintaining harmony and tolerance among Kenyans was extremely essential, even as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
By Sitna Omar
