Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has called on Kenyans to maintain peace and unity as the country heads towards the 2027 General Election.

Speaking at Katoloni Seminary during the Requiem Mass for Rev. Fr. Martin Kilonzo and Rev. Fr. Paul Kinyumu, Governor Ndeti urged political leaders and citizens to exercise restraint and avoid divisive rhetoric that could threaten national cohesion.

She said peace is a collective responsibility and appealed to the church to take a leading role in preaching unity ahead of the polls.

“As we mark International Peace Week, I appeal to all Kenyans to maintain peace because this country belongs to all of us. Let the church speak with one voice and urge Kenyans to uphold peace,” Governor Ndeti said.

The governor also called for political tolerance, noting that every Kenyan has a right to hold and attend political gatherings without intimidation.

She condemned the growing cases of political goonism witnessed in parts of the country, urging leaders to disown violence and embrace issue-based politics.

Echoing her sentiments, Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi, who also attended the service, cautioned leaders against reckless statements, warning that inciteful utterances could undermine stability.

Mwangangi said Kenyans should be careful with what they say and do during the electioneering period to avoid sowing seeds of discord.

Presiding over the service, Machakos Catholic Diocese Bishop Norman King’oo Wambua, echoed the calls for peace, urging Kenyans to shun hate speech and violence.

Bishop Wambua called on the electorate to respect divergent political opinions and to exercise tolerance, saying democracy thrives where there is dialogue and mutual respect.

The leaders spoke at a time when political activities are gaining momentum across the country ahead of next year’s general election, with various stakeholders intensifying calls for peaceful campaigns and coexistence.

By Anne Kangero