Kisii University Vice Chancellor Prof John Akama has dismissed perceptions that councils of elders from various ethnic communities across the country are political outfits.
Akama said the councils should not be perceived as political machinery but groups that should champion for national cohesion and integration.
Prof Akama warned members of the public against reading too much politics into councils of elders' leaderships and instead support the councils' initiatives of preaching peace and unity among communities.
Speaking at Kisii University on Thursday during the National Elders Conference hosted by Abagusii Elders Council to evaluate performance of councils of elders from the 47 counties, Akama underscored the importance of the councils in conflict resolution and mediation.
The don argued that the elders in the councils of elders are senior citizens who have served the country in various capacities and have dedicated their time and energy to enhance peaceful co-existence.
"I would like to remind members of the public that the elders serving in various councils of elders across the 47 counties are not advancing any political agenda for any individual or party but working to ensure communities live in peace and harmony," stated Prof Akama.
He further called on various stakeholders to support the elders through facilitation of crucial projects to enable them continue preaching peace and unity among Kenyans.