Mombasa: As Christians enter Holy Week Retired Rev. Bishop Julius Kalu of the ACK Diocese of Mombasa has urged politicians to tone down their rhetoric and embrace humility.

According to Kenya News Agency, Bishop Kalu spoke during the marking of Palm Sunday at ACK St. Peter's Nyali Parish. He rode on a donkey in a symbolic reenactment of Jesus Christ's entry into Jerusalem, calling for political tolerance and restraint.

He explained that Holy Week is a time to remember how Jesus offered Himself as a lamb of sacrifice. Before that, he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, an animal associated with humility, to demonstrate that leadership should be exercised in a humble way. He added that people rejoiced because Jesus entered in peace, and called on Kenyans to practice justice for all.

Bishop Kalu challenged leaders to borrow a leaf from Jesus as an example of good leadership. 'As we now enter Holy Week, we call upon all our political and religious leaders to tone down their rhetoric, because we are witnessing rising tensions across the country,' said Bishop Kalu. 'It is now time to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who called on people to humble themselves and serve one another, especially the poor. It is also a time to reflect on our language and the words we use,' he added.

The bishop emphasised that Holy Week calls for humility, respectful communication, and avoidance of abusive or foul language. On the raging war in the Middle East, he urged Christians to take it as a lesson on the importance of peace. 'We must keep peace among ourselves, among our neighbours, and among the nations around us. This is the only way to live a life that will please God,' he said.

As the country gears up for next year's General Election, Kenyans were urged to register as voters, take part in the democratic process, and elect leaders of their choice. 'I call upon all people, particularly young people, the Gen Zs, the millennials, and others, to take up this responsibility,' he said.