Focus Attention on Holding Elected Leaders to Account: Faith Leaders in Kenya to Citizens

In the September 6 statement that was also signed by the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) and the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), faith leaders in Kenya underscore the need for Kenyans to focus their attention on national development.

The faith leaders say, “As Kenyans, let us recognize that the season of the 2022 elections is ending. Let us now embrace a season of holistic, just and equitable development of our nation.”

They laud Kenya’s Supreme Court Judges for concluding the hearing and determination of the presidential poll petition and call on the lower courts to ensure justice for “petitions that may be filed”.

“We now call upon the rest of the Judiciary to prepare for and ensure justice is done and is seen to be done in the petitions that may be filed touching on the other electoral positions,” faith leaders say in their statement.

Addressing themselves to the elected leaders, religious leaders in Kenya call for seriousness in serving Kenyans and caution against vices.

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“Do not destroy our nation through corruption and selfish gain,” the religious leaders say in their September 6 statement, and add, “Rather, in humility and sense of service, focus on wholesome development of the nation.”

They call for sobriety and magnanimity in celebrating victory of the President-elect, saying, “We urge you to avoid abrasive or excessive celebrations, keeping in mind that there are many Kenyans who are wounded and aggrieved.”

The religious leaders encourage those who lost in the general elections to explore other opportunities so they are part of the nation building. They say, “Rise up and identify other ways you will contribute to the welfare of Kenya.”

Turning their attention to the President-elect, the faith leaders promise him their spiritual solidarity, and urge him to be a symbol of national unity, providing leadership to all Kenyans irrespective of their political affiliations and ethnic backgrounds.

“We urge you to be a leader of all Kenyans regardless of their political, ethnic or religious leanings by demonstrating, in word and deed, justice and equality,” the religious leaders say, addressing themselves to Dr. Ruto.

To the President-elect’s main challenger, former Prime Ministery, Raila Amolo Odinga, religious leaders in Kenya say, “We commend you for the great contribution you continue to make as a leader in Kenya. You have demonstrated strong statesmanship in your calls for the rule of law to be respected and upheld.”

The religious leaders also laud the outgoing President, Uhuru Kenyatta, for his “expressed commitment to a peaceful transition”, which they say is a significant mark of democracy in Kenya.

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.