Suleiman Shahbal warns against inflammatory remarks ahead of political season
By Sharon Atieno, May 27, 2026Member of Parliament in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), Suleiman Shahbal, has urged political leaders and Kenyans to uphold peace, unity and responsible leadership as the country heads into an increasingly active political season ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking after joining Muslim faithful for Eid ul-Adha prayers at the Tononoka Grounds in Mombasa County on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, Shahbal emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence, cautioning leaders against divisive rhetoric that could threaten national stability.
“Tuwe amani sisi sote kama Waislamu, tujaribu tuweke amani ili nchi yetu ipate usalama,” Shahbal said.
He noted that Eid celebrations should serve as a reminder of unity, brotherhood and compassion, urging Kenyans to continue praying for peace and stability in the country.
“Tunaomba kuwa mabadiliko yaweze siku ya Eid, tunawaombea mema wote na kwa muhimu zaidi ya yote tuweke amani sisi sote kama Waislamu,” he added.
Shahbal cautions leaders over divisive remarks
Shahbal further appealed to leaders across the political divide to be careful with their public statements, warning that reckless remarks could fuel tension and undermine national cohesion.
“Ujumbe kwa viongozi, tujaribu kuweka amani, tujaribu kuwa careful na maneno ambayo wanasema,” he stated.
He said the responsibility of leaders should be to promote brotherhood, security and unity among communities rather than deepen divisions during politically charged periods.
“Madhumuni kama Waislamu ni kuweka undugu, usalama na urafiki ili nchi yetu ipate usalama na kuendelea,” he added.
Growing calls for peaceful politics
Shahbal’s remarks come amid growing national debate over political rhetoric ahead of the 2027 elections, with leaders increasingly calling for peaceful engagement and national cohesion.
Recently, Musalia Mudavadi warned politicians against fuelling tensions, stressing that Kenya must reject election violence and protect democratic processes.
“We do not encourage violence as we head to elections. We should not be underwriters of violence. We want a democratic process,” Mudavadi said during a legislative summit in Mombasa.
Analysts say increasing calls for unity from leaders reflect growing concern over rising political temperatures as parties intensify mobilisation ahead of the next General Election.
Muslim faithful across the country gathered in mosques and prayer grounds to mark Eid ul-Adha, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar.