Kajiado clerics call for peace as voters troop to polling stations

Some of the clerics from Kajiado County. [Peterson Githaiga, Standard]

Religious leaders in Kajiado County have urged Kenyans to keep the peace after voting.

The clergy urged politicians not to incite supporters to violence during today's elections.

Speaking at a press conference in Kitengela town, the clergy urged Kenyans to vote wisely and to ignore politicians who seek to divide them for selfish gain.

They urged aspiring candidates to discourage their supporters from using violence and to accept election results.

The clerics, led by bishop Isaack Obinchu of Gethsemane Life Church, advised the electorate to approach the election with caution, electing people who will unite Kenyans and spearhead the country's development.

"We are pleading with all politicians to keep the peace during and after the elections. Kenyans saw what happened in the previous elections, and we don't want to go down that road again," Obinchu said.

Election violence has a long history in Kenya. In 2007/08, more than 1,000 people were killed in post-election clashes that displaced thousands.

Bishop Bonface Mangiti of Glorious Gospel Church advised those running for office to be prepared to concede defeat.

"Politicians should not treat elections as if it's a matter of life and death," said World Wide Church Bishop David Chege Kariuki.