Terrorism not part of Muslim religion, says leaders

Imams and Islamic institutions have cautioned the government against using excessive force to combat radicalization.

In a meeting in Eastleigh with Buruburu OCPD Richard Kerich, Kamukunji MP Yussuf Hassan and other government officials, the Muslim leaders said the government should instead win the hearts and minds of youths who have joined extremist groups.

Led by Ahlusuna Wal Jama chairman Fukhrudin Sheikh Abdiaziz, the leaders pointed out that extremism and radicalisation is not part of their religion and called upon the government to conduct investigations in madrassas and mosques.

"We admit that radicalization is indoctrinated in schools, madrassas and mosques and it can only be fought and defeated by teaching children the right religions and ideologies," said Sheikh Abdiaziz.

He said it is high time that the government checks into the syllabus of madrassas and mosques adding that extremist groups were trying to divide Kenyans along religious lines.

"Let us not accuse Muslims but stop wrong ideologies conducted in some mosques and madrassas because these ideologies are problematic to not only Christians but also to the Muslims. Government officials and politicians should implement the truth and youths who have joined the militant group should take advantage of amnesty announced recently by the government and surrender," he added.

Sheikh Abdiaziz said they believe in working with all communities in peace and harmony.

Kamukunji Member of Parliament Yussuf Hassan said Islam rejects extremism and violence.

"Terrorists do not represent the true teachings of Islam. Muslims in Kenya want to live in harmony with other Kenyans," said the legislator.

Hassan said more work is required to educate and train young people on ways to avoid such outlawed cults and teachings.

There have been increased cases of terror attacks and youth radicalization with the government calling for amnesty for youth who have joined Al- Shabaab terror group.