Messages of peace amid fun as millions mark birth of Christ

Leaders sent messages of goodwill and peace as millions of Kenyans celebrated Christmas Day across the country.

Speaking at the Holy Ghost Cathedral in Mombasa where he attended mass, President Uhuru Kenyatta asked Kenyans to be kind to those in need.

“Let us adopt the spirit of helping those in need. I take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous 2016,” said the President, who was accompanied by members of his family.

Father John Correa, who led the mass, commended the Muslims passengers in the Mandera-bound bus that was attacked by Al Shabaab militants in Mandera on Monday, for shielding Christians.

“The action by our Muslim brothers in Mandera was our Christmas gift. They said enough is enough, we are all brothers and sisters and you cannot divide us using religion. Something special is happening in Kenya,” Fr Correa said.

Renewed hope

Deputy President William Ruto also urged Kenyans to unite and maintain peace.

“As Kenyans, we should appreciate our country and celebrate our God-given blessings by regarding each other as brothers and sisters irrespective of ethnic or political backgrounds,” said Ruto at his Sugoi home where he hosted thousands of residents and officials of 32 SOS Children’s Villages in Uasin-Gishu County.

Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) co-principal Raila Odinga and his wife Ida also sent a message of goodwill to Kenyans.

“Warmest greetings and best wishes to all those who are celebrating Christmas as we join with Kenyans everywhere in recognising the sense of renewed hope and comfort this joyous season brings to our nation and the world.”

Raila said: “It is our prayer that Christmas becomes a state of mind throughout the coming year that enables faith to overcome doubt, hope to conquer despair, and love to triumph over hate. To Christians confessing the Catholic faith, this Christmas is special coming after an uplifting visit by Holy Father Pope Francis. It is my hope and prayer that we use this season to reflect deeply on the words of the Pope while he visited.”

Amani National Congress party leader Musalia Mudavadi called for more compassion and asked Kenyans to support to each after a difficult year of economic hardships.

“Let’s resolve to be our brother’s and sister’s keeper. The underprivileged, poor, people with disabilities, the sick and young children need our compassion and most importantly, pray for lasting peace in our country that we may never again be visited by acts of terrorism,” said Mudavadi.

Bishop Joseph Obanyi of Kakamega Catholic Diocese cautioned politicians against using hate speech to divide the country.

“In 2015, we had many cases of political leaders inciting their supporters. They should be warned that in 2016, we will not allow them to continue with such utterances,” said the Bishop