Muslim Abdul Ramadhan speaks to the press when they marked Eid-Al-Adha in Kendu Bay town/Robert Omollo
Muslim leaders in Homa Bay are calling on State agencies to take punitive action against politicians accused of spreading hatred during their campaigns for elective positions.
The clerics warned that failure by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and the Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (IEBC) to act swiftly could endanger national stability.
Kenyans are preparing to participate in the 2027 General Election.
Abdul Ramadhan speaks to fellow Muslims in Kendu Bay town during Eid Al-Adha/Robert Omollo
Oginga stressed the need for political tolerance, saying firm action is necessary to discourage hate speech among leaders.
“Taking disciplinary measures against political leaders who are making hate speech is the best way to tame them. IEBC and NCIC should work together and stop hate mongers,” Oginga said.
Speaking during the Eid-al-Adha celebrations at Kendu Bay Show Ground in Karachuonyo Constituency, Oginga further urged IEBC to consider barring candidates with a history of hate speech from contesting in elections.
“Such people should be disqualified and blocked from seeking elective positions for sanity to be in Kenyan politics. This is when they can learn a lesson from the danger of their actions,” he said.
Ramadhan said recent remarks by some political leaders threaten national cohesion and unity, urging leaders to exercise restraint.
He cautioned against inflammatory statements that could destabilise the country.
“Let politicians make comments which can unite the country. We should know that elections come and go but we’ll still remain here as citizens of Kenya,” Ramadhan said.
He also called for love and prayers among Kenyans during the festive period.
Omollo, on his part, urged leaders to use the religious occasion to embrace forgiveness in order to promote peace locally and globally.
“Peace very important in society. We are calling on leaders both at the national and global levels to forgive one for peace to prevail,” he said.
