The Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) has raised concerns over the political tension which is currently gripping the country.

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Speaking to the press in Mombasa, Supkem chairman Prof Abdulghafur El Busaidy said violence might grip the country if the government and opposition continue to use the streets as a platform to differ over the Independent and Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

El Busaidy called for immediate dialogue between Jubilee and Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (Cord) saying they hold the key to peaceful elections.

“We have noted the heightened political competition and the escalation of divisive rhetoric that may fuel anxiety and discord among the citizenry ahead of 2017 elections,” said El Busaidy.

He further urged politicians to uphold dignity of their offices and also to refrain from toxic political rhetoric.

“We urge Kenyans of goodwill to reject such political inclination and ensure the relevant law enforcement agencies are strengthened and empowered according to the law,” he said.

He hover explained that religious leaders were ready to mediate the dialogue process to ensure reconciliation is achieved before Kenyans go to the polls come 2017.

“Dialogue is the only solution to solve the IEBC puzzle. However, the dialogue has to be sincere and not just another political tool to seek mileage,” said El Busaidy.

Contrary to the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), the clerics believe sending IEBC packing is not a solution.

At the same time they challenged IEBC to win the confidence of Kenyans for them to trust the electoral process.

“We urge the commission to be more proactive in engaging and updating Kenyans on the status of preparation with a view to enhance scrutiny, input and participation by all Kenyans,” he said.

He appealed to Kenyans to embrace dialogue and not utterances that could disrupt the peace of the country.

“Kenya belongs to all of us. Sincere consultation to resolve matters touching on the country’s preparedness for 2017 elections is more important,” he said.