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Nairobi clergy to leaders: Shun divisive politics

“Leaders should focus on building trust and promoting inclusivity.”

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by Allan Kisia

News17 January 2025 - 17:21
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In Summary


  • Oketch said matters of national security are far too delicate and need to be handled with care.
  • The religious leaders said politicians should avoid making utterances that could incite Kenyans against each other.

Religious leaders from Nairobi led by Rev Vitalis Oketch/Handout 

A section of the clergy drawn from Nairobi has warned the political class against issuing statements that could hamper the unity of the country.

Under the banner of Nairobi Religious Leaders, the group said leaders should avoid making utterances that could incite Kenyans against each other.

“Leaders should focus on building trust and promoting inclusivity, rather than stoking the flames of division for political mileage,” Nairobi Religious Leaders chairman Vitalis Oketch said.

On Friday, Oketch added that leaders must remain steadfast in ensuring that all Kenyans, regardless of their ethnic or religious background, are allowed to serve in public office without intimidation, interference, or discrimination.

Oketch commended security agencies, who he has have consistently worked tirelessly to secure the nation by thwarting terrorist plots and ensuring the safety of our citizens Despite receiving little or no recognition.

“These brave men and women remain vigilant in the face of evolving threats. Their dedication deserves our gratitude and support, not baseless accusations that undermine their efforts,” he added.

In December, a section of clerics in Kiambu County also came out to call on leaders to shun divisive and confrontational politics for the sake of peace and tranquillity in the country.

The religious leaders raised concerns that recent political spats by leaders are a threat to the peace and unity the country has experienced for long, urging them to tone down their political tantrums.

They averred that political leaders have a responsibility to ensure peace prevails in all parts of the country.

Led by Federation of Evangelical and Indigenous Christian Churches of Kenya General Secretary Bishop David Thagana, the clerics called on the politicians to desist from heated political exchanges that would cause divisions among communities, regions and across the country.

They pleaded with the politicians to instead use their political platforms to preach peace and unite the nation, especially during this Christmas season.

"We are worried about the trend that our political leaders have adopted of fighting each other and fueling political divisions. This is not healthy for our country's peace," Bishop Thagana said.

The Bishop decried that politicians have used the tribal card the entire year to divide Kenyans and challenged them to veer off the path and embark on promoting peace and tranquillity for the betterment of the country.


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