The Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) is now calling upon the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party to call off its planned anti-government protests.
The leadership, drawn from five regions and representing members both from within and outside Kenya, have condemned the ongoing protests warning that they are generating tribal clashes as witnessed in Kibra where a church and businesses were razed to the ground.
“The clerics recognize and appreciate that Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 provides for demonstrations. However, the PCEA church is saddened by the events that happened last week following the demonstrations which resulted in the burning of the church in Kibra, an adjacent mosque as well as business entities around that area,” said Rev. Thegu Mutahi.
“In addition, they have witnessed private properties being invaded and destroyed, sometimes with a little attempt by the police to stop these atrocities.”
Addressing the press on Wednesday, the clerics called upon President William Ruto to demonstrate leadership and consider a reconciliatory approach in order to end the stalemate.
“I call upon opposition Leader Raila Odinga to consider calling off the demonstrations to allow for other more peaceful approaches to resolving the current concerns and grievances,” Rev. Mutahi stated.
“I call upon His Excellency William Samoei Ruto to demonstrate leadership at this critical time, by encouraging a reconciliatory approach in order to end the prevailing tensions.”
Consequently, the leaders urged the police to be disciplined and fair while dealing with protestors in order to ensure lives are protected, with the long-term goal of ensuring that the country remains peaceful.
“We call upon the police to act with utmost responsibility and impartiality in discharging their mandate of protecting all Kenyans – both those participating in picketing as well as those going around with their daily routines,” Rev. Mutahi stated.
“We pray that the good neighbourhood between Christians and Muslims be maintained noting that the issues facing this country are not religious but political and economical as we seek to live in harmony and help those among us who are in need.”
