Nakuru, 15 July, 2026 / 8:20 PM
The Bishop of Kenya’sCatholic Diocese of Nakuruhas urged Kenyans to become promoters of peace ahead of the East African country’s2027 general elections, cautioning against actions that could lead to violence.
In his Tuesday,July 14, reflection, BishopCleophas Oseso Tukasaid that all those who engage in or support campaigns should only engage in actions that promote peace in the country.
“Let us become ambassadors of peace as we approach the 2027 general elections period. I urge politicians to conduct their campaigns peacefully and responsibly. I also appeal to their supporters to respect one another and avoid actions that could lead to conflict, violence, or anything that may destroy the peace we currently enjoy,” Bishop Oseso said.
“We value peace above elections and above anything else. No political agenda is greater than the agenda of peace. Without peace, even politics loses its meaning,” he added.
The 58-year-old Catholic Bishop emphasized the need for peace, especially among politicians, saying, “We ask all politicians and those aspiring for various leadership positions across our counties and throughout the country to become promoters of peace.”
He cautioned Kenyan citizens against being taken advantage of to cause violence and engaging in activities that disrupt peace.
“I urge citizens not to allow themselves to be used by others to incite violence or create unrest that would disrupt peace in our communities,” he said.
The Catholic Bishop expressed concern over the already ongoing trends of political violence and tensions in some parts of the country, saying that chaos are not only happening in political gatherings but also inchurches.
“Through the media, we have already witnessed growing political tensions and agitation that are causing destruction and threatening peace. Some of these incidents are happening at political gatherings and even within our churches,” he said.
“We know that there are groups that accompany politicians, some of which have been formed to cause violence and create insecurity in our communities,” he said.
The Local Ordinary of Nakuru reminded them of some of theimpacts of post-election violencethey have experienced in previous years, acknowledging that some people still live with “painful realities” to date.
“During the previous elections, we witnessed post-election violence in which many people lost their lives, others were injured, and some continue to bear physical and emotional wounds to this day,” he said.
“The suffering we experienced in the past is enough. The people of Nakuru know that this region has been affected by political violence, and we continue to live with its consequences even today. We do not want to return to those dark moments. We desire a peaceful Nakuru,” he added.
The Catholic Bishop underscored the importance of peace in the nation, calling on the people to preserve it at all costs.
“Let us not destroy peace. When peace is absent, we cannot work, nor can we live in safety. Let us preserve this great gift we have been given—the gift of peace,” he said.
“If we must speak, let us do so in ways that do not offend or provoke others. If it is about policies, let politicians present their manifestos and allow people to make their own decisions freely. Let us not coerce, intimidate, or sow division among ourselves,” he added.
The Kenyan called on members of his Diocese, in particular, to engage in healthy politics and to cultivate love and unity in the region.
“Join us in making Nakuru a better place, a safe place, and a home for peaceful politics. Wherever you are, be a messenger of peace,” he said.
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