Religious leaders in Kisumu have cautioned Linda Mwananchi leaders against inflammatory rhetoric ahead of their planned rally on Sunday, urging them to exercise restraint to safeguard peace in the lakeside city.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Nomiya Church Cardinal Archbishop Moses Teddy Ayoma Oketch warned that careless remarks during the rally could trigger unrest, calling on the leaders to focus on development-driven messages instead.
“We want the Linda Mwananchi leaders to be allowed to speak to the people of Kisumu. But I am asking them to choose their words carefully. Let them speak about development agendas so that we avoid conflicts that would destroy what we have built,” said Ayoma.
He emphasized that the right to assemble and address the public is protected under the Constitution, urging both supporters and critics of the Linda Mwananchi movement to uphold tolerance and allow the event to proceed peacefully.
At the same time, Ayoma raised concerns over the exploitation of young people in political contests, warning against their use in fueling violence.
“Youths should not be used to settle political differences between factions. They must be empowered, not hired to cause chaos. Kisumu has come from far, and we must protect the progress made,” he said.
The cleric also issued a stern warning to students allegedly being lured into political activities, reminding them to remain focused on their education.
“Parents are paying school fees for their children to learn, not to engage in political conflicts,” he added.
On the economic front, Ayoma urged matatu operators not to hike fares ahead of the reopening of schools for the second term, noting that recent reductions in fuel prices should translate into relief for commuters.
“Parents are already burdened, and they should not be subjected to additional transport costs. We want peace and fairness for everyone,” he said.
Turning to internal party matters, Ayoma called on the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to conduct free and fair nominations, warning against zoning and the imposition of candidates.
He argued that while zoning may be seen as a strategy to strengthen party unity and funding, it undermines democracy and the will of the people.
“ODM should favour aspirants chosen by the people, not those imposed on voters. If nominations are not fair, many aspirants will defect to other parties, rendering zoning ineffective,” he warned.
