Politicians should stop making inflammatory statements during their campaigns, Kisii Catholic Bishop Joseph Mairura has said.
Mairura said such statements will either break or build the country and thus urged leaders to engage in peaceful campaigns.
The prelate spoke on Saturday at Immaculate Conception Nyabururu Parish where he ordained five priests.
He said it will be prudent for the leaders to sell their policies and agendas and leave voters to make their decision on August 9.
“It is disheartening to see some leaders make statements which can lead to violence. They should understand that the decision to elect leaders is in the hands of Kenyans,” Mairura said.
“I am urging our politicians to stop assassinating their opponents' characters before members of the public and instead show respect,” he added.
He told leaders to avoid calling their rivals thieves during campaigns, adding such reports have no meaning to people who want to hear what the leaders would do for them.
“Our nation is politically on fire. We do not want violence. I appeal to leaders not to mislead their supporters,” the Bishop said.
He told the leaders to allow others to campaign in all corners without any interference.
He said they have a right to exercise their freedom of expression as enshrined in the constitution and reminded them to be humble as they campaigned.
Mairura praised the faithful for supporting the church’s projects and challenged them to be careful during the campaign period and elect leaders based on their policies and manifestoes.
He urged the faithful to continue praying for the country because peace is paramount adding the country will move forward if peace prevails.
The ordained priests are David Manono, Jasper Atandi, Zachary Machiegwa, Victor Moturi and Justin Ondego.
(Edited by Bilha Makokha)