Kisumu transport operators and religious leaders have launched peace campaigns ahead of August 9, polls.
The initiative is aimed at building cohesion and reduce tension among political factions.
Led by Nomiya Church Archbishop Musa Sule and Revival Ministries Assistant Bishop Tom Obingo, the clerics said Kenyans should shun divisive leaders for the sake of peace and unity.
Kenyans should never allow bloodshed and destruction of property which for years have derailed socio-economic growth amongst them in every election period
Bishop Sule
Bishop Sule who spoke during a peace prayer meeting Kisumu main bus park told leaders to avoid making inflammatory statements which risks fueling chaos in the country.
“Kenyans should never allow bloodshed and destruction of property which for years have derailed socio-economic growth amongst them in every election period,” said Sule.
Democracy
Sule pointed out that it was democratic right of every politician to move freely and campaign in any part of the country seeking votes.
He strongly condemned the recent attacks on ODM leader Raila Odinga and called for proper investigations on the incident.
Market Milimani MCA Seth Ochieng also attended the prayers on Sunday.
Obingo who is also a director at Molo Line Prestige Transport Company called on President Uhuru Kenyatta to support the initiative.
Hotbed of violence
He asked youths not to allow themselves to be used by politicians in fueling violence.
In the past, he said, many youths have either been maimed or killed during elections period.
He said similar meetings will be conducted throughout the county
Ochieng said the bus park is always the hot bed of violence each election cycles, which should be a thing of the past.
Ochieng championed for peace and unity saying no meaningful development can be realized in unhealthy and hostile environment.
He said the government should be firm on those bent on causing chaos during polls.