Avoid acts that provoke violence, Moi tells locals

By Karanja Njoroge

Former President Moi has asked resident of clash prone areas of Molo and Kuresoi to avoid acts that might lead to violence.

The former President said violence in the area is often triggered by incidents of cattle rustling, which could be resolved by local elders.

"Stealing of cattle should not lead to violence or the killing of people," Moi told a peace and reconciliation rally at Kamwaura in Kuresoi District.

He said he was saddened and still trying to come to terms with post-election violence, especially in Rift Valley Province.

The former Head of State said the violence was unnecessary and accused leaders of putting their interests before those of the public.

Preaching peace

"If votes have been stolen, why not leave the issue to the police and let them handle it? Why block the roads and kill people?" he posed.

Moi said he has been preaching peace for the last 16 months since the violence.

The former president said leaders should seek to understand the culture and needs of all people living in the region to avoid igniting tribal hatred.

Shun hostility

"Any leader aspiring to lead the country must understand the ways of life of various communities," he added.

Moi further asked youth to be responsible and shun violence.

He said that peace is key as the country struggles to address problems posed by population increase.

Moi, whose farm was destroyed during the post-election violence, has been crisscrossing the country for peace and reconcilliation meetings.

He has also urged political leaders not to divide Kenyans along ethnic lines.

 

 

Read all about: Kuresoi District post-election violence

 

 

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