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Religious leaders in Kilifi county have condemned the rivalry between Governor Gideon Mung’aro and former Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa during the just-concluded Chenda Chenda festival. Addressing journalists in Kilifi town, the clerics led by Canon Benjamin Jumbale said it was unfortunate that an event meant to unite the Mijikenda community had turned chaotic.

“This event is very important to the Mijikenda and Kilifi county which was given the privilege to host it. We did not expect politics to take a centre stage,” he said.

 Apology to visitors Jumbale said the Mijikenda people are known for their hospitality and took time to apologise to visitors who attended the event and their expectations were not met.

“I know people went there to sample the cuisine and music from this county. This is not how we behave and I want to say sorry for what happened,” he added.

Warioba Rashid, a Muslim leader urged locals to practice patience and give their elected leaders time to work for them. He called for proper arrangements of the festival in the coming years.

“It was initiated by elders who wanted unity and recognition of the community. Let’s not discourage their efforts,” he said. Badi Yeke, another Muslim leader said there is a need for residents to respect the leadership of the county.

 The festival was held on September 9 at Kayafungo in Kaloleni constituency, with both the county government and the former CS claiming hosting rights to the event and prompting the clashes.