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Political and opinion leaders have been called out for exacerbating divisiveness and tribalism amongst residents of Bungoma and Trans Nzoia, especially after the push for Mt. Elgon County.
While addressing the media at a peace messaging forum through religious platforms organized by KAREU MPYA CBO on Tuesday at Kaptama, Mt. Elgon Sub County, Ptala Naibei, the Bungoma Peace Forum and the committee leader in the region bemoaned the animosity among politicians.
“It is sad that our current elected leaders are the ones promoting tribal divisions amongst the majority five tribes in Bungoma County, namely Watura, Tachoni, Sabaot, Bukusu, and Teso, just because the Sabaots have cried for their own county,” decried Naibei.
He further stated that if at all Mt. Elgon’s agenda of getting a county is passed constitutionally, then it would be a great milestone development-wise, not only for the Sabaots but all communities within.
His sentiments were echoed by Bishop John Matui, chairperson of Vision Builders Church in the region, who beseeched political leaders not to hang their dirty linen in public, as demonstrated by the Trans Nzoia governor and Deputy Governor during recent public forums.
“From the understanding of our history, it’s needless to say that we need to appreciate and protect the peaceful and harmonious coexistence we are experiencing at the moment. Social media users should also be very keen on whatever information they share and avoid inciting posts,” cautioned Matui.
Lillian Maasai of Friends Church emphasized the importance of peace, especially during this crucial period when the Sabaots are crying to have their own country so that they can feel the resources closer home.
“Everyone in Mt. Elgon desires the county, but we should push our agenda peacefully and respectfully so that we do not relive the post-election violence moments where women and children undoubtedly suffer the most,” reiterated Maasai.
Conclusively, Abdel Kamasai of KAREU MPYA affirmed their support for peace through all stakeholders in the community so as to eliminate any possibility of tribal clashes.
“We are working in collaboration with ACT! and USAID towards mitigating electoral conflicts in Kenya as well as supporting civic voter education programs, and we are not relenting in this campaign for peace, especially in Bungoma and Trans Nzoia counties,” upheld Kamasai.