Hundreds of Islam faithful from Kisii town have called for unity and integration among Kenyans, following sharp differences that were perceived between the religion and Christians towards the end of last year.
Speaking during prayers on Sunday at Jamia Mosque in the town, Sheik Hassan Juma said there is need for all communities to live in harmony regardless of their political, social and religious affiliation.
“We should live as brothers and sisters. Our country has remained intact despite the temptations to follow suit like other failing nations. Religious differences should never be allowed among us since they are perilous,” said Juma.
He asked the police to be vigil in worshipping places to quell fears that they were used by extremists to offer terrorism training to youths.
“Our security agents ought to remain vigil to ensure our worshipping places are not turned into fields of radicalization. Whoever found agitating for that should be arrested and subsequently arraigned in court,” added Juma.
He defended Islam as a religion that focuses on social transformation in the society to help the poor and needy, and dismissed claims that some Imams were spearheading animosity between the aforementioned religions.
“Islam means love and unity. Whoever misinterprets the core values of our religion is hostile hence an enemy of God. Those radicalizing youths may be in their own religion since ours does not allow such kind of uncouth practices,” he said.
The shelk said 2015 should be a year of National integration and reconciliation, and urged Kenyans to desist from constant politicking that might disintegrate the nation.