Isiolo elders caution politicians on divisive talk in campaigns
National Council of elders Treasurer Ahmed Set (right) and Minority groups Chairman Fred Kinaru during a press conference at the Al-Falah Islamic Centre in Isiolo Town on February 1, 2017. They cautioned politicians against making divisive statements. PHOTO | VIVIAN JEBET | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- They urged local political leaders to spearhead cohesion during their campaigns.
- Ahmed Set warned locals to be wary of politicians forming their own councils for political advancement.
- Fred Kinaru said youths are being exploited by politicians to cause chaos during rallies organised by their opponents.
The Isiolo Council of Elders has cautioned politicians to desist from making inflammatory and divisive utterances during campaigns ahead of August elections.
The council composed of Turkana, Somali, Borana, Samburu, Meru and other minority group communities urged local political leaders to spearhead cohesion during their campaigns.
They spoke at Al-Falah Islamic Centre in Isiolo Town on Wednesday.
One of the elders, Mr Ahmed Set who, is also the National Council of elders Treasurer, warned locals to be wary of politicians forming their own councils for political advancement.
ADVICE TO YOUTHS
“We are worried that some politicians are using divisive language and might cause disharmony in our county as [we head] to the August election,” said Mr Set.
Turkana Council of Elders Chairman Nicholas Asuran and minority groups chairman Fred Kinaru said youths are being exploited by politicians to cause chaos during rallies organised by their opponents.
They challenged the youths not to be misused by politicians but instead demand for accountability from them during campaigns.
The elders called on the county security team to be vigilant on utterances made during public rallies and arrest politicians who are out to pull back efforts made in ensuring unity.
