Muslim leaders and clerics have now called for the sacking of Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha over his remarks against an NTV journalist.
In a video that has since gone viral, Magoha had asked a Muslim journalist to identify herself before he could answer her questions.
“Kwanza wewe unatoka wapi? (Where are you from?). Who are you representing because if you are representing al Shabaab I will not answer you," Magoha said.
He was addressing Pumwani Boys while breaking ground for the construction of classrooms.
On Tuesday, Supreme Council of Kenyan Muslims (Supkem) chairman Hassan Ole Naado condemned the sentiments, terming them as unfortunate.
He said many communities are under election tension and such sentiments may lead to violence.
"We are hurt by the words of Magoha. He is not an ordinary person but a leader and we have always advised our children to follow his steps but when he says such words, it is unfortunate," he said.
Naado called on the government to take action against Magoha.
"Magoha should be fired immediately because he lacks morals," he said.
He urged all leaders to preach peace and unity and refrain from using words that can lead to violence.
Kenyans on social media also condemned the sentiments.
"This is in poor taste and borders on intolerance!! Coming from a person of his status, it is prejudicial to efforts in building tolerance and countering some narratives peddled by extremists," Rowbow Rawbow said
Rehema Zaid: "So sad. Maybe he is NOT aware of the ongoing effort in society to approach to counter terrorism. One of the principles is not to stereotype others based on their religion/ethnicity."
Francis Onyikwa: "This is very wrong. He should instead preach peace and stability. He is working hard in restoring enmity. Magoha!!!! "
