By KPC Reporter
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged religious leaders to prioritize prayers for national unity and stability as political temperatures begin to rise ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking at Parliament Buildings after attending a Holy Mass to mark Ash Wednesday and the start of the Lenten season, Wetang’ula expressed concern over the increasingly divisive tone of political discourse.
The Mass was presided over by Fr. Bernard Komlan of Tangaza Diocese, assisted by Fr. Ken Kipchumba of the Eldoret Diocese.
Calling for sobriety and restraint among leaders, the Speaker warned that reckless rhetoric risks inflaming tensions and deepening divisions.
“Kenyans are generally calm people, but Father, the political class is the problem. When they get the microphone, their utterances fuel a lot of tension. Pray for us,” Wetang’ula said.
After receiving ashes in observance of Ash Wednesday, he cautioned against the resurgence of ethnic-based politics, emphasizing that unity and peace are essential to national progress.
“We need unity and peace. Pray for leaders spreading hate and division. We need a cohesive country if we are to move forward and develop,” he added.
Marking the commencement of Lent—a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and repentance in the Christian calendar—Wetang’ula wished Christians a spiritually enriching season.
“May this holy season purify our intentions, renew our faith, and lead us, through repentance, to the grace of Easter,” he said.
He also extended goodwill to Muslims observing the holy month of Ramadan, describing it as a time of devotion, self-discipline, and generosity.
“Ramadan Kareem to my Muslim brothers and sisters. Wishing you a month of intention, gratitude, reflection, and peace, filled with purpose,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker called on both Christians and Muslims to pray for an inclusive, united, and prosperous Kenya—free from tribal divisions and anchored on peaceful coexistence—adding that the parallel observance of Lent and Ramadan offers the nation a timely opportunity for collective reflection and renewal.