Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Bishop Jackson Ole Sapit has appealed to politicians across the political divide to refrain from making inflammatory statements that could plunge the country into chaos ahead of the August 8 general elections.
In his New Year Message, Ole Sapit appealed to politicians to exercise maturity and tolerance as they conduct their campaigns.
The Bishop warned that the country will be thrown into violence if politicians make or perpetuate incitement and hatred in their campaigns.
“Our appeal is to politicians in government and the opposition to refrain from making statements that will divide Kenyans as we approach the general elections,” he said.
Ole Sapit who spoke at the All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi on Sunday said that the August general elections will be peaceful if politicians champion for peace.
He urged Kenyans not to be swayed by petty politicians who preach hatred.
“We (Kenyans) should not allow ourselves to be misguided by petty politicians whose aim is to create divisions,” he said as quoted by the Nation.
The ACK Bishop also cautioned youths against being lured to violence by selfish politicians.
“Young people must be careful this electioneering period and reject temptations to be used by politicians as objects of violence,” he added.
The Bishop asked religious leaders and Kenyans at large to pray for a peaceful general election.
While commenting on the controversial election laws currently under scrutiny by the Senate, Ole Sapit called for dialogue among stakeholders and said that the interests of the country and Kenyans should be put first on policies and legislation.