Don’t muzzle opposition, Jubilee leaders told

By MICHAEL WESONGA

Eldoret Catholic Bishop Cornelius Korir has advised Jubilee coalition leaders to accommodate views expressed by the opposition.

In reference to calls for a referendum, Korir said there was no need for Jubilee leaders to be agitated.

However, he asked the country’s leadership to remain focused and avoid distraction.

Bishop Korir urged Government to accept and appreciate dissenting voices because they have a significant role to play in democracy.

“We must have such people otherwise the country will not be good. It will not be good if everyone is laughing or if everyone is angry,” he said.

Boost security

Korir observed that opposition creates a balance in society and must, therefore, not be demonised.

He made the remarks while presiding over the North Rift thanksgiving service for disciplined officers and their families at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Eldoret at the weekend.

The Bishop urged Kenyans to respect authority entrusted to the disciplined officers by according them cooperation to boost security.

He castigated recent incidents where police officers have been assaulted by civilians while carrying out their duties.

“I don’t know where this culture of attacking police officers has come from because it was previously unheard off. I do not know whether it a creation of the new Constitution but I hope it will die,” said the Bishop.

Korir paid special tribute to officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

“We recognise and appreciate your important service to the society and are in solidarity with families that lost their dear ones in the line of duty,” he said.

Present was Rev Selesius Mugambi, Bishop of Meru Diocese and chaplain in-charge of uniformed disciplined forces.