Narok church leaders have urged the Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission to bar leaders found guilty of incitement and chaos from contesting any political seat.
The religious leaders were led by Bishops Jackson Solonka of Free Pentecostal Church and John Mpurkoi of Pentecostal Assemblies of God.
They said it's time for the IEBC to work with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission to crack the whip on politicians spreading hate messages and causing animosity.
While condemning the attack on ODM leader Raila Odinga's chopper in Uasin Gishu, the religious leaders said politicians should not take Kenyans back to 2007-08 poll violence.
They made the remarks during different church services on Sunday.
Solonka called on the National Police Service and other government agencies to up their game to stop politicians from polarising the country.
“Kenya is a beautiful country and we should live in peace. If you disagree with a certain politician, do not attend his or her rallies to avoid causing unnecessary tension,” Solonka said.
He said Kenya is bigger than individuals and politicians should stop ruining her image and compromising peace.
“The politicians must be cautious on how they speak and should avoid issuing inciting remarks that can lead to bloodshed,” he said.
The bishop said the election is a one-day affair and it should not ruin the country.
“We better not destroy our country, we need to pray for our country and put God first in everything and things will head in the right direction,” Solonka said.
The cleric said negative ethnicity might lead to several repercussions and there is a need for politicians to weigh their words.
“Leaders should always be in the forefront in promoting cohesion and national values to build a healthy and united nation devoid of tribalism," he said.
Mpukoi called on Kenyans to ensure peace is maintained and allow politicians from any party to sell their manifestos peacefully.
“I urge all the clerics to organise and meet Deputy President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga for peace talks,” Mpurkoi said.
The clergy said as the religious leaders have started prayer sessions for the country in preparation for the August 9 polls.
He called on the youths to beware of politicians’ keen on exploiting them.
“The youth should follow leaders who direct them towards development and improving their livelihoods not destructive activities,” he said.
(Edited by Tabnacha O)
