Church leaders from Mombasa County have urged all the religious leaders in the country, not to take any political stand as the General Election date approaches.
Led by National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), Coast Region Chairman, Bishop Peter Mwero, they said it was high time for the clergy remained neutral and the voice of the people in political matters.
Speaking at a Mombasa hotel, Bishop Mwero said that religious leaders should stand in the middle of all political parties and advise people accordingly, in order to bring peace when needed.
“In 2008 when there were political clashes, religious leaders were used to bring sanity to the country through the religious teachings. We should also note that our followers are of different political affiliations, which will not be appropriate as the people they look upon, when we take a stand,” he said.
The cleric noted that the Church is a key player in initiating peace, that is why NCCK brought together religious leaders and Boda boda representatives, for a sensitization forum with IEBC officials, so as they will get voter education to prepare for the general elections.
The Clergyman also said that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is prepared for the election and it has shown its potential to deliver credible elections, urging people to have hope in it and give it a chance to deliver its mandate.
Mwero said from the many sensitization forums they conducted in regards to a peaceful election, there is a lot of hope that the election process will be peaceful and transparent.
Reverend Evelyne Majewa, who is the Women Representative, NCCK Mombasa County, urged women not to let their children be used in violence or misused by selfish politicians as it might lead to clashes in the community.
“We are working in collaboration at the Coast Region and make sure all women in Mombasa County and beyond will preach peace,” she said.
By Chari Suche
