MOMBASA — Religious leaders from Christian and Muslim communities have jointly called on the youth to cease protests and engage in dialogue following incidents of criminal infiltration and violence during recent demonstrations.

According to Kenya News Agency, peaceful youth protests led to the withdrawal of the contentious Finance Bill, 2024, but not without significant costs including loss of life, injuries, and abductions. He condemned the violence meted out against protesters, primarily young individuals from Generation Z, and expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones. The clerics also denounced the criminal acts by some protesters who engaged in theft and looting.

Rev. Baya emphasized the adverse impact of continued protests on the business environment and the national economy, urging for a cessation of strikes to foster peace and constructive discussions. He highlighted the deep-seated frustrations due to perceived leadership failures since Kenya's independence, describing the current mood as a 'boiling point' needing servant leadership.

Further, Bishop Reuben Katite of the ACK Malindi Diocese called on Kenya's Head of State to initiate dialogue with the youth, advocating for humility, transparency, and truthfulness in discussions to restore peace. The bishops stressed the importance of realigning government priorities with the aspirations of the people to address ongoing complaints.

Separately, the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) reinforced the bishops' call for halting protests. CIPK Organizing Secretary Mohamed Khalifa appealed to parents to guide their children towards stopping the protests to allow for dialogue, noting that the initially peaceful demonstrations had been overtaken by criminal elements leading to significant damage and disruption.

Sheikh Hassan Omar, CIPK National Treasurer, urged all Kenyans to maintain peace, emphasizing the long-term consequences of national instability and the extensive effort required to rebuild a fractured nation.