Muslim leaders urge Raila to halt protests as Ramadhan begins

Muslim leaders led by Nyali MP Mohamed Ali (second left), Falhada Iman, and Rehema Hassan at Parliament buildings, Nairobi. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Some Muslim leaders have called on Azimio leader Raila Odinga to halt the demonstrations as Muslims across the world prepare to observe Ramadhan.

The leaders, led by Nyali Member of Parliament Mohammed Ali said they want to avoid violent incidents as witnessed during the Monday protests, especially in Muslim-populated neighborhoods.

The leaders claimed that innocent people were attacked and their businesses suffered huge losses when on Monday, Odinga's motorcade canvassed through Nairobi estates including Eastleigh.

"We are asking Raila Odinga to take advantage of the holy month of Ramadhan to pray for forgiveness. He has been protesting for so long," said Ali.

His sentiments were echoed by EALA MP Falhada Iman who blamed Odinga for the chaotic incidents on Monday, saying they were unnecessary.

Yesterday, the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) Organising Secretary, Sheikh Mohamed Khalifa, said the sighting of the crescent that marks the start of Ramadhan is expected today, Wednesday or Thursday, March 23, 2023.

Odinga's convoy made several stops and addressed crowds at City Stadium, Eastleigh, Kamukunji, Mathare, and Thika Road.

On Tuesday, March 21, the Azimio leader in his continued call for the lowering of the cost of living, also announced weekly demonstrations to take place every Monday and Thursday, starting next week.

Additional reporting by Betty Njeru.