Machakos:Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has urged Kenyans to uphold peace and unity as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Ndeti, speaking at Katoloni Seminary during the Requiem Mass for Rev. Fr. Martin Kilonzo and Rev. Fr. Paul Kinyumu, emphasized the importance of political leaders and citizens exercising restraint and avoiding divisive rhetoric that could endanger national cohesion.
Governor Ndeti highlighted peace as a collective responsibility and encouraged the church to lead efforts in promoting unity ahead of the elections. She called for a unified voice from the church to remind Kenyans of the importance of maintaining peace.
Additionally, the governor advocated for political tolerance, affirming that every Kenyan has the right to participate in political gatherings without fear of intimidation. She condemned the increasing occurrences of political violence, urging leaders to reject it in favor of issue-based politics.
Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi, who also attended the service, supported these views, advising leaders against making reckless statements that could incite unrest. He emphasized the need for caution in speech and actions during the election period to maintain harmony.
Presiding over the service, Machakos Catholic Diocese Bishop Norman King’oo Wambua also called for peace, urging Kenyans to avoid hate speech and violence. Bishop Wambua encouraged the electorate to respect differing political opinions and promote tolerance, stating that democracy flourishes in an environment of dialogue and mutual respect.
These calls for peaceful political engagement come as electoral activities increase nationwide, with stakeholders urging for peaceful campaigns and coexistence in the lead-up to next year’s general election.
