Mombasa governor hopeful Hassan Omar at a past event. He has slammed religious leaders engaging in political campaigns. [Photo/ nation.co.ke]
Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar has hit out at religious leaders said to be campaigning for certain politicians.
Speaking in Mombasa on Friday, Omar said it is wrong for religious leaders to take sides when it comes to matters politics, adding that religious leaders whether Muslims, Christians, Hindus and others are supposed to remain neutral.“It is shameful to see and hear that religious leaders are taking sides and supporting certain candidates,” said Omar as quoted by the Standard.The governor hopeful said the role of the clergy is to monitor and root for peaceful polls and not campaign for aspirants.He alleged that some of the top candidates eying political seats in the county are being supported by religious leaders.“I have witnessed and seen some Sheikhs and pastors campaign for certain politicians,” he claimed.The Wiper Party Secretary General appealed to the clergy to refrain from taking political sides, and urged them to instead preach unity and peace. He said political temperatures in the country are rising and the clergy needs to calm the situation.He also appealed to religious leaders to pray for peaceful polls, adding that the country must remain peaceful regardless of whoever clinches the presidency.