• + Comment now
• Print
• Email
• Tweet
• Reset

Elders from Kenya's Luo, Pokot and Meru communities have asked for government support of their vow to maintain peace and tolerance in advance of the 2013 general elections, Kenya's The Standard reported Tuesday (August 28th).

In a public statement they called "The Kapenguria Declaration", the elders committed to promoting dialogue and cross-community understanding among their constituents.

"We are playing a role in peace building but the government has not recognised this," the statement said. "We do not want loss of lives due to communal conflicts. We condemn with the strongest voice the clashes between Orma and Pokomo communities in which over 50 people were killed," they said. "If elders are recognised, such bloodshed could be avoided because elders counsel is important and is taken seriously."

The elders, meeting at Makutano Stadium in Kapenguria, attracted a large crowd who performed traditional dances and rites. The elders vowed to curse leaders who instigate violence during the general elections, calling for unity among Kenyans.

"We are here to make a declaration of peace. We are praying for peaceful election and we are lobbying for unity of Kenyans," said John Mok, chairman of the Pokot council of elders.