Church leaders urge politicians to reject violence ahead of elections

Church leaders have urged politicians to reject violence and promote peace and unity as the country enters an increasingly tense political period ahead of elections.

Kisumu Clergy Fellowship Secretary General Bishop Patrick Owuor said political intolerance was becoming a serious concern, with rival groups increasingly unable to coexist peacefully.

Owuor, who also leads Transforming Spirit Church, condemned attacks on political opponents and said violence witnessed in Homa Bay over the weekend must end.

“We as a church, we are praying that this should come to an end,” Owuor said, urging church leaders to speak out against political violence.

He called on political leaders to examine their actions and consider the consequences of encouraging or financing violence.

Owuor spoke on Tuesday during the Life Change Crusade in Kisumu, held alongside a conference for pastors and church leaders.

Life Change Church Pastor Dr Mark Strong of Portland, Oregon, who has been involved in ministry in the United States for 38 years, said the gathering was aimed at strengthening churches by equipping and encouraging pastors.

He said bringing church leaders and Christians from different backgrounds together could foster stronger relationships and cooperation beyond the event.

“When folks are able to come together, cross-pollinate, it creates a web, a stronger fabric that allows the city, the pastors, the leaders to do things together in the future,” Dr Strong said.

He said churches had an important role to play in bringing people together despite differences in denominations, perspectives and political views.

He said Christians shared a common bond that should transcend those differences.

Bishop Owuor echoed the call for unity, saying churches should continue to condemn violence and encourage Kenyans to live together peacefully.

He urged political leaders to put national interests ahead of political competition and not use young people to attack opponents or disrupt political gatherings.

Bishop Owuor also warned young Kenyans against being recruited into political violence, saying politicians would eventually leave office while young people would remain to inherit the country and its leadership.

“If they are used to cause violence now and hurt the nation, when their time comes, whom will they lead when the nation is destroyed?” he asked.

The church leaders’ appeal comes as political activity intensifies ahead of the elections, raising concerns about political intolerance and violence.

They urged political leaders, church organisations and communities to work together to protect peace and ensure political differences do not turn violent.