Kiambu religious leaders call for national dialogue, end to political violence
They aver that while the government has been making efforts to address unemployment and economic hardship, the violence and destruction witnessed during the protests are only worsening the situation
A cross-section of religious leaders from Kiambu County have called for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing wave of protests across the country, warning that continued unrest could drive Kenya into chaos.
Speaking during a prayer meeting held at the Embassy of God Church in Witeithie village, Juja sub-county, the clerics appealed for calm and called on both the government and demonstrators to de-escalate the tensions that have led to widespread destruction of property, looting, and the loss of lives in recent weeks.
Led by Bishop Samuel Irungu, the clergymen emphasised the urgent need for national dialogue, calling on President William Ruto to demonstrate humility and initiate talks with opposition figures and protest leaders.
“The country is bleeding, and the people are hurting. We are pleading with the President to consider the bigger picture and take the bold step of initiating honest dialogue. It is not a show of weakness, but a show of leadership,” said Bishop Irungu.
The clergy expressed concern that while the government has been making efforts to address unemployment and economic hardship, the violence and destruction witnessed during the protests are only worsening the situation.
They noted that the looting of shops and burning of infrastructure was displacing thousands of workers, especially youth, and potentially increasing crime in villages and urban centers alike.
“The youth need hope, not bullets. They need jobs, not tear gas. But when businesses are destroyed and investors flee, it is the same young people who suffer most. We are urging restraint from all sides,” said Reverend Peter Ndegwa.
They also condemned what they termed as rising political intolerance and ethnic profiling, warning that such divisions could tear the country apart.
“Kenya is one. If we divide it along tribal or political lines, we risk losing the unity we’ve built over decades. Leaders must rise above petty politics and focus on solutions,” said Rev Muchuku Kimani.
The men of God pledged to continue praying for peace and to engage other faith leaders across the country in pushing for national reconciliation and healing.
Their call comes in the wake of sustained Gen Z-led protests against government policies, with security agencies accused of using excessive force, including fatal shootings of unarmed civilians.
