A Catholic priest has criticised calls for a referendum by the Opposition and some governors, saying it is likely to tear the country apart.
Father Moses Muraya, preaching on Sunday at the St Monica Catholic Church in Nakuru’s Section 58 Estate, said what Kenyans now need is peace.
“Let us always pray for our leaders and unity among Kenyans. We should not be divided by referendum calls,” he said, adding that Kenyans should distance themselves from politics that can polarise the country.
The priest warned that such divisions would lead to a nationwide crisis like the 2007/08 post-election violence which led to massive losses of life and property.
Muraya said politicians had a chance to rebuild their image as peacemakers by preaching peace in all forums, including political rallies.
He said all Kenyans must embrace peace instead of magnifying the current political upheavals, which he said were unhealthy.
“When you show hatred to your colleague politicians, your supporters take it literally and become hostile to their fellow Kenyans, threatening their co-existence,” he said.
The cleric said leaders need to lead by example by showing unity among themselves.
His message comes amid calls for a referendum by both governors and Cord to amend particular sections of the constitution.