Don't blame all Muslims for sins of a few, say clerics

By Ally Jamah

Nairobi, Kenya: Muslim leaders have appealed to Kenyans against collective blame and stigmatisation of Muslims whenever acts of insecurity and terrorism occur.

Speaking at Kenyatta National Hospital Thursday after visiting and consoling victims of Monday’s grenade attacks in Nairobi’s Eastleigh Estate, the leaders said that criminal acts of a few individuals should not be blamed on a whole community.

“If someone with a Muslim name is involved in criminal acts, it does not imply that such action is condoned by Islam and the whole community should not be collectively blamed for the wrong acts of a few individuals,” said Nairobi Jamia Mosque’s Deputy Imam, Sheikh Juma Amir.

Sheikh Juma further said it was unfair to associate Muslims with acts of violence and stressed that the teachings of Islam emphasize protection of life and property and that Islam does not allow the killing of innocent people.

“Islam itself means peace and it is a religious obligation for each individual Muslim to work and support all efforts aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence,” said Sheikh Jumam, who was accompanied by the Imam of Jamia Mosque Sheikh Muhammad Swalihu and the former deputy Imam Sheikh Subki Shee.

The leaders condemned acts of wanton killings against innocent people and reminded the Government of its obligation in protecting the lives and property of all Kenyans without discrimination.

Peaceful society

“It is deplorable that some people can even contemplate shooting an innocent child. We strongly condemn these despicable acts and Government should apprehend those involved in killing of innocents,” said Sheikh Swalihu.

The leaders called on all Kenyans to continue working together towards nurturing a peaceful society where all citizens live in peaceful co-existence. “We have for generations lived together in peace and harmony and should not allow dark forces to create divisions and sow mischief.”