Inter-Religious Leaders Press Statement on the State of the Nation – July 2023

RELIGIOUS LEADER’S STATEMENT ON THE STATE OF THE NATION

PREAMBLE

The Inter-Religious Council of Kenya with representatives from Christian, Muslim and Hindu communities have met here at the All African Conference of Churches today on Thursday, 13^th July 2023 and have consulted, deliberated and reviewed the state of our nation including its social and economic aspects and have the following message to Kenyans:

1. Religious Leaders on the Demonstration of 12^th July 2023

As Religious Leaders, we understand Kenyans are entitled to peaceful demonstrations according to Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and understand the economic strains we as Kenyans are facing. However, we are pained by the violent acts that were witnessed across the country during the demonstrations called by the Azimio Coalition on 12^th July 2023.

1. We mourn the lives lost yesterday and condole with their families and friends. It is regrettable that Kenyans had to lose their lives. We also pray for the healing and recovery of injured Kenyans including our security forces.
2. We are deeply concerned by the use of live ammunition and excessive force on protestors by our security agencies.

• We deeply condemn and are shocked by the teargassing of children of Kihumbuni Primary School in Kangemi.

1. We also condemn the destruction and looting of property that was witnessed during the demonstrations.

To the political actors;

We urge the Azimio coalition to call on their supporters not to break the law but remember to be each other’s keepers during this time of economic crises whilst the nation works together towards a solution to the challenges that we are facing. We further appeal to the Azimio Coalition to hold on to any demonstrations and give a chance to dialogue in the interest of maintaining peace.

2. Upholding the Spirit of Nationhood

As Religious Leaders, we call on the political leadership to build trust from the people, locally and internationally, and that trust should never be sacrificed on the altar of political convenience, or unnecessary show of might. As a country, we have every opportunity to shape our collective destiny through structured, bipartisan, unconditional, and time-bound engagements and dialogues. We, therefore, call for the resumption of the bipartisan talks that have since stalled; as a country, we need to dialogue if we are going to forge ahead in the spirit of togetherness.

3. Unburdening of Kenyans

We appeal to his H.E. President Dr. William Ruto to extend his arm of national fatherhood beyond the political class and reach out to all Kenyans who are struggling with the high cost of living. Your Excellency consider the cry of Kenyans as many families are feeling the strain of the economic burden and struggling to stay afloat.

Conclusion

Now more than ever, it is crucial that we come together as Kenyans, supporting and caring for one another. While times might be tough let, us not lose sight of our shared humanity and the power of unity.

By upholding the law and looking out for the welfare of our fellow citizens, we can navigate this crisis with resilience and compassion. Together, we can emerge stronger and build a brighter future for all.

As the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya, we offer ourselves to support the two sides to engage with each other amicably as we continue praying for the country and our leaders.

God bless our nation.

Signed on this 13th day of July 2023 at All African Conference of Churches, Nairobi:

Rev. Fr. Joseph Mutie

Chairman, Inter-Religious Council of Kenya

 

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IRCK Statement on the State of the Nation