Ukambani residents during the United Lower Eastern Association prayers meeting in Mlolongo, Machakos County on Sunday. (Photo/Maugo Owiti/hivisasa.com).Some residents of Mlolongo, Machakos County have established an association to preach peace ahead of the October 26 presidential repeat elections.
United Lower Eastern Association chairman Anastasio Njue said the initiative is intended to unite all communities living in Machakos, Makueni and Kitui Counties.
Njue said the organization was established few weeks to the polls since ‘there is tension in parts of the region’, especially in Mlolongo.
He said residents from some communities were living in fears due to NASA’s intensified demonstrations as the election date nears.
“We will traverse the entire Ukambani region preaching peace, there is life after politics. Some Kenyans are already affected by politics and tension between NASA/Jubilee politicians and their supporters,” said Njue.
Njue spoke during a peace prayers meeting organized by the association in Mlolongo, Mavoko Sub County on Sunday.
He said the organization comprises of youths, religious leaders and locals.
“We want to unite all residents from the region as Kenyans without minding tribe, race, religion, age, social status and political party and individual is affiliated to. We call on all Kenyans across the country to embrace peace,” said Njue.
Njue said the residents should not allow being divided by politicians on tribal lines.
“Our leaders should be at the forefront in preaching peace during this volatile period. President Uhuru Kenyatta and NASA Presidential candidate Raila Odinga should sit down, reason together and find a solution to the current political stalemate so that Kenya remains peaceful,” said Njue.
He said IEBC should consider demands of both Jubilee and NASA politicians for a favorable solution before the presidential repeat polls are conducted.
Mlolongo Pastors Association chairman Raphael Nzau said all clergy from the region meets every Monday to pray for peace across the country.
“We are united as pastors and religious leaders including imams, we meet every Monday to pray that peace and unity prevail in the entire country,” said Nzau.
Nzau said Kenyans should recognize and respect the presidency despite the person holding the office.