Nyanza clergy representing 132 churches and 30 denominations have urged political leaders to tone down their rhetoric and embrace dialogue, warning that careless speeches could fuel violence ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a press briefing in Kisumu on Monday, the clergy called for peaceful political competition between the government and opposition, urging leaders to resolve disagreements through dialogue rather than confrontation.
“Every leader must learn to work with the opposition or people who challenge them in their leadership,” the clergy said, appealing for peace between the ruling party and opposition groups.
They also criticised the early start to political campaigns, saying the activity was taking place before the formal campaign period.
The clergy said politicians should either respect the existing legal timelines or, where there is consensus for earlier campaigning, Parliament should formally address the issue so that the country can prepare for peaceful campaigns.
“We are really concerned that the campaigns have started way before the periods of campaigns,” they said.
The church further warned political leaders against inflammatory statements, saying reckless remarks could have serious consequences.
“The power of the tongue gives life or death,” the clergy said, adding that some leaders were making statements “that are going to cause death to many Kenyans in the near future”.
They urged politicians to use responsible language and turn to dialogue whenever political disagreements arise.
The clergy also called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to take greater control of political campaigns, saying this could help address some of the tensions already being witnessed.
“We are therefore calling for IEBC to take full control of the campaigns,” they said.
The church said politicians should focus on presenting their manifestos instead of mobilising supporters to confront rivals.
“How about the people who are campaigning? Why do they want to talk about themselves? Why can't they sell their manifestos so that people can elect responsible leaders?” they asked.
The clergy also warned against the exploitation of young people for political violence, calling for their economic empowerment instead.
“We are asking our youth to be empowered economically, and not to be used as goons or hooligans,” they said, describing young people as “the strength of this nation”.
They called on the new IEBC to ensure elections are conducted fairly and that voters are able to elect leaders through the ballot.
The clergy's remarks come as debate over political violence continues to intensify following clashes during the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay on 16 August.
Two people, including a police officer, were killed and dozens injured in the violence, according to police and hospital reports.
The incident has renewed calls for political leaders, security agencies and other stakeholders to prevent violence as Kenya moves closer to the 2027 polls.