Religious leaders in Kisumu County have issued a strong appeal for calm, restraint, and responsible political engagement ahead of the planned Linda Mwananchi rally set for Sunday, April 26, 2026.

Speaking under the Kisumu Interfaith Network (KIN), a coalition bringing together leaders from multiple faith traditions, the clergy emphasised that while the right to peaceful assembly and political participation is fundamental in a democratic society, rising political intolerance and violence pose a growing threat.

Archbishop Betty Onyango of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC) grounded the call for peace in shared religious teachings, citing scriptures across faiths that promote harmony and nonviolence.

She referenced the Bible in Matthew 5:9, which blesses peacemakers, a verse from the Quran (Surah Al-Furqan 25:63) urging humility and peaceful responses, and a passage from the Hindu Rig Veda encouraging unity of thought and purpose.

The interfaith group expressed concern over what it described as a worrying trend of political incitement and the mobilisation of organised groups, particularly youth, to disrupt public gatherings.

“Such actions undermine democratic freedoms, weaken social cohesion, and risk lives,” she said.

She further noted that Kisumu, known for its vibrant political engagement, has previously experienced unrest during periods of heightened tension, underscoring the need for vigilance and collective responsibility.

Fr Francis Konyach of the Catholic Church called on political leaders and rally organisers to take responsibility for their supporters and ensure peaceful conduct throughout the event.

Inflammatory remarks

He urged leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric, hate speech, or any actions that could incite division or violence.

The clergy also directed a message to young people, cautioning them against being used as tools of conflict.

“I want to encourage the youths to instead embrace their role as agents of positive change and development within society and urge parents and guardians to actively guide their relatives and children toward peaceful participation and restraint,” he said.

He stressed the importance of dialogue within households to prevent involvement in actions that could lead to harm.

Security at the rally

On security, the interfaith network called for professionalism, impartiality, and proportionality from law enforcement agencies, emphasising the need to protect all citizens regardless of political affiliation.

As the country gradually approaches the 2027 election period, the religious leaders warned against the normalisation of violence, goonism, and political intolerance, saying such trends risk undermining national stability.

They reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, dignity, and coexistence, urging Kisumu residents to ensure that the upcoming rally serves as a model of orderly and respectful democratic participation.

In a show of practical community engagement, the Church also mobilised tens of youths in a clean-up exercise at Kibuye Market in Kisumu, as part of ongoing efforts to promote civic responsibility and environmental stewardship alongside peace messaging.