Shun divisive politics, embrace harmony, urge Garissa leaders

Political and religious leaders in Garissa have called on Kenyans to refrain from engaging in divisive and hate-driven politics as the country prepares for general elections next year.

Led by East African Legislative Assembly MP Falhada Dekow, they urged Muslims and Kenyans at large to embrace the spirit of Ramadhan, which emphasises unity, love, forgiveness, and brotherhood.

Speaking at the Rtd General Mohamud Eid Grounds during Eid prayers to mark the end of Ramadhan, Dekow called for peace and harmony.

The former senator said politicians have a critical role to play in fostering unity, and that their words and actions significantly influence society.

“Peace is paramount, and we all want it. As we head towards the general election, we should not allow politics to divide us at all. Politicians must also be careful with their utterances. Let us practice mature politics,” she said.

She cited the example of negotiated democracy, a system commonly practiced in the Northeastern region, noting that it has significantly contributed to promoting unity and strengthening social cohesion among communities.

The lawmaker thanked President William Ruto for scrapping the vetting requirement that had long hindered residents of the Northeastern from acquiring national identity cards. She urged those who are yet to obtain identification documents to take advantage of the directive.

“Initially, our people faced challenges acquiring ID cards, but that is now sorted. We also had problems getting passports, but that too has been addressed. We have every reason to be grateful to the President and to support his administration,” she said.

 SUPKEM national organising secretary Abdullahi Salat criticised recent public spats among political leaders, describing them as embarrassing and detrimental to national unity.

He expressed concern over the ongoing exchanges between President Ruto and opposition leaders, noting they had become personal.

“The attitude being displayed by our leaders, washing their dirty linen in public is a serious concern,” Salat said.

“Kenyans want to see leaders debate issues constructively, not trade insults in public,” he added.

Muslim faithful from Garissa during Eid-ul-fitr prayers at Rtd General Mohamud Eid grounds on Friday./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Muslim faithful from Garissa conducting Eid-ul-fitr prayers at Rtd General Mohamud Eid grounds on Friday./STEPHEN ASTARIKO