Clerics warn over booing during president Uhuru visit to Bungoma

Bishops and Pastors led by Bungoma County Diocese Anglican Church of Kenya George Mechumo address the press in Bungoma. (PHOTO: TITUS OTEBA/STANDARD)

KENYA: Clerics in Bungoma County have warned leaders and residents against heckling and careless talk during President Uhuru Kenyatta's visit to the county.

The Head of State is expected in the county this Saturday to grant Kibabii University College a charter to be a fully-fledged institution of higher learning.

President Kenyatta will also launch development projects, including commissioning of Chesikaki-Kimama water project.

In a statement read Thursday on their behalf by Bungoma Anglican Church of Kenya Bishop George Mechumo , the clerics cautioned residents against acts of intimidation during the visit.

"We therefore call upon elected leaders and their supporters to restrain from any acts of heckling and maintain peace during and after the visit by the Head of State," said Bishop Mechumo.

The leaders cautioned supporters of Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetang'ula and those of New Ford Kenya to stop engaging each other over the predicament facing Mr Wetang'ula at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

"We should be our brother's keeper and avoid causing tension that sparks violence. Let IEBC decide on Wetang'ula's fate, don't point fingers at other communities because we have co-existed peacefully," he said.

They said now that Lwakhakha border point had been commissioned into a fully fledged Immigration department, it would open up the county to the East and Central African region for trade.

The leaders also called on Uhuru to find time next year so that they can engage and pray together for the betterment of the country.

Others under the umbrella of the Bungoma County Church Leaders Consultative Forum who were present included Bishop James Murunga (Secretary), Bishop Albert Siranjofu (Treasurer) and Bungoma Chaplain Rev Calistus Barasa.