Concerns Mount Over Political Violence as Religious Leaders Join Calls for Order Ahead of Elections

Growing concerns over political intolerance, violence, and disorder are taking center stage as Kenya moves closer to the next general election, with leaders from both civil and religious spheres urging restraint and accountability.

Speaking during a public address, political commentator Zulfikar Osman warned of escalating tensions linked to political activities, citing recent incidents that have reportedly resulted in loss of life, arrests, and destruction of property.

“We are seeing politics being played in a rough and dangerous manner at a time when the country should be preparing for a peaceful electoral process,” Osman said.

Religious Leaders Weigh In

Echoing similar concerns, Sheikh Abubakar Bini, the North Rift Chairman of the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK), called for calm, unity, and respect among political actors and their supporters.

Bini urged leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and instead focus on issue-based campaigns that promote cohesion. He warned that continued political hostility could destabilize communities and undermine Kenya’s democratic progress.

“As religious leaders, we are deeply concerned about the rising tensions. We must remember that peace is paramount, and leaders have a responsibility to guide their supporters toward unity, not division,” he said.

Calls for Institutional Action

Osman reiterated the need for stronger coordination among key institutions, including the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), and the National Police Service.

He proposed that political rallies should only proceed after receiving clearance from all relevant authorities to ensure proper planning and adequate security.

“Why can’t these institutions come together before any rally is held and ensure that there is proper authorization, adequate security, and clear guidelines?” he posed.

Impact on Citizens and Businesses

Both Osman and Bini highlighted the negative impact of chaotic political gatherings on ordinary citizens. Small-scale traders, transport operators, and workers often face disruptions, loss of income, and insecurity during rallies.

“Not everyone wants to attend political rallies. There are Kenyans who simply want to go about their daily work—shopkeepers, street vendors, and others. Their rights must be respected,” Osman said.

Bini added that protecting livelihoods is essential to maintaining social stability, urging authorities to ensure that political activities do not infringe on the rights of others.

Security Gaps Raise Alarm

Concerns were also raised about inadequate security at large political gatherings. Osman noted that in some cases, crowds of tens of thousands are managed by only a small number of police officers, creating a high risk of chaos.

“In some rallies, you find crowds of up to 100,000 people, but only 20 or 30 officers on the ground. That is simply not sufficient,” he said, calling on the government to review its security deployment strategies.

Oversight Bodies Under Scrutiny

The two leaders also urged oversight agencies, including the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), to step up efforts in curbing incitement and enforcing the law.

They questioned whether some institutions are doing enough to prevent political violence, warning that inaction could embolden offenders and erode public trust.

A Call for Unity and Responsibility

In their closing remarks, both Osman and Bini emphasized the importance of national unity and responsible leadership. They called on politicians, the media, and citizens to uphold respect and dignity in political engagement.

“We have one Kenya. We must conduct our politics in a way that reflects unity, respect, and responsibility,” Osman said.

Bini echoed the sentiment, urging Kenyans to prioritize peace above all else as the country prepares for the انتخابات period.

As political campaigns intensify, their remarks underscore the growing urgency for reforms, stronger enforcement of regulations, and a collective commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s stability and democratic integrity.