National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged religious leaders to place the country’s stability at the forefront of their prayers as political temperatures begin to rise ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Speaker spoke at Parliament Buildings after attending Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Bernard Komlan of Tangaza Diocese, assisted by Fr. Ken Kipchumba of the Eldoret Diocese to mark Ash Wednesday and the start of the Lenten season.
Expressing concern over the tone of recent political discourse, Wetang’ula called for sobriety and restraint among leaders warning that reckless rhetoric risks 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,” he said.
The Speaker, who later received ashes in observance of Ash Wednesday, cautioned against the resurgence of ethnic-driven politics, saying unity remains critical 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 the faithful 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 his goodwill to Muslims observing the Holy Month of Ramadan describing it as a sacred period 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,” he 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.
Ramadan is observed through fasting from dawn to dusk, spiritual reflection and acts of charity, while Lent similarly emphasises prayer, penance and renewal seasons that Wetang’ula said offer an opportunity for national introspection.
