Resolutions by Nyanza Clergy and Elders’ Forum
March 14, 2017
NCCK General Secretary Rev. Canon Peter Karanja poses for a group photo with Nyanza Clergy and Elders after a two-day forum in Kisumu
Towards Peaceful and Credible Elections in Kenya
Nyanza Clergy and Elders’ Dialogue Forum
RESOLUTIONS
A. Preamble
We the Elders, women and Clergy from Nyanza region together with youth representatives have met here at The Jumuia Hotel, Kisumu from the 9th and 10th March 2017 to reflect on ways of ensuring that peace prevails before, during and after the August 2017 General Election.
Drawing reflections from the book of Nehemiah 1: 2-4, 4:1-2, the forum reaffirmed the need to work towards rebuilding Kenya and restoring our dignity and heritage. We were all challenged to emulate Nehemiah in his initiative to restore the City of Jerusalem as we stand to secure elections 2017, contributing to the stability of our beloved country. For clergy and elders to have an impact in the rebuilding process of the nation, the forum resolved to remain focused going forward and be determined to make a difference.
B. Prevailing Political Environment
The forum took note of the heightened political environment owing to increased number of aspirants offering themselves to vie for political seats given the motivation to access resources and opportunities. Some of these positions like Governor, Member of Parliament and Member of County Assembly (MCA) have so far witnessed a near scramble for political party tickets on readiness for the August contest.
The forum was concerned that the youths on the other hand were being prepared to be used as political pawns in this process .
C. Appreciation for Progress Made
This forum notes that the clergy and elders from Nyanza region holds the promise of promoting unity and social development for our communities. This hope is pegged on the fact that the elders and clergy have the interest of the people at heart as opposed to politicians and as custodians of communities’ value proposition and culture including leadership.
D. Threats to peace in Nyanza region
The delegates also took note of a number of factors that could threaten peace during the current electoral period are eminent. These factors include:
a) Formation of militia groups by politicians and aspirants
b) Undemocratic intra/interparty processes including unfair party nominations
c) Heightened competition for political positions with chest thumping from the incumbents vis a vie other aspirants
d) Challenges touching on IEBC including an unacceptable voters register, un-procured elections materials, tight timelines towards elections
E. Mitigation measures
Having considered these alarming threats and understanding our roles before, during and after the August General Election, the forum therefore commit to the following:-
• Using available platforms and fora to preach and shun violence
o Clergy and elders will use available fora to preach peace among the community members and conduct civic education. They agreed to move with speed and stem incitement of youth in areas where intolerance is being witnessed. The communities in Nyanza will encourage politicians of all parties to sell themselves as aspirants and political candidates.
• Use available fora to prepare community to vote and accept elections results peacefully
o The forum resolved to urge the party leaders be decisive and have party mechanisms that would bring sobriety in the party nomination process.
• Elders and clergy to unite and speak with one voice
• Organize platform for vetting political aspirants for various offices at the county level
o The clergy and elders will organize public vetting sessions for aspirants in our counties to vet them and issue to them the community needs that needs to be addressed if they are to be elected into office
• Engage with the various stakeholders in elections by organizing meetings with county and sub-county as well as national government administrators.
Conclusions
Apparently elections are critical processes in the country because they are the vehicle through which political leaders are elected. As the Nyanza community, we need to build our sense of restoring Kenya’s integrity. In this process we commit to be rebuilders of this nation by approaching elections with an intention of maintaining peace before, during and after elections
Signed on this 10th day of March 2017 at Jumuia Hotel, Kisumu
Chairman, NCCK Nyanza region Rev. Simon Achar ……………………..
Abagusii Rep ………………………… ………………………
Luo Rep ………………………… ………………………
Suba Rep
