Support gov’t to fight terrorism, Uhuru tells Muslims

Following the killing of 36 people in Mandera on Tuesday, President Uhuru Kenyatta has called upon the Muslim community in the country to keep supporting the fight against terrorism and extremism. Tuesday’s attack happened only a week after another attack claimed by the Somalia based Al Shabbab militants where 28 people were pulled off a Nairobi-bound bus and executed.
Addressing the nation on Tuesday on the current security situation, the head of state said the fight against extremism cannot be won without the support of the community and urged Muslims to stand against those who use Islam to perpetrate acts of violence against other people.
“Without a doubt, terrorists who claim to kill in the name of Allah are neither Muslims nor Godly people, but deranged animals who have lost their souls and minds. Stay true to your religious tradition of tolerance and respect for all people. We depend on your support in our war against violent extremism and terror,” said the President.
Speaking on the current security situation, the President Uhuru asked Muslims to continue with their tradition of tolerance and respect for other people stressing that Islam is a religion of peace. “All Kenyans understand Islam to be a religion of peace, because Allah is All Gracious and Merciful” HE added.
In his address, the President acknowledged that the community’s contribution to nation building is indispensable and referred to Muslims as a hardworking and peaceful community. He stressed that those using the religion to carry out acts of violence are neither Muslims nor represent the community but rather terrorists who do not understand the teachings of their religion.
The President urged Kenyans to stand together in the war against terrorism and avoid blame game adding that citizens need to focus on tolerance and peace building. He urged the leaders of the county governments especially those on the borders to work hand in hand with the national government in protecting Kenyans and keeping the country safe.
Uhuru also had a message for the media that it should not serve as a platform for destructive and toxic interaction but rather advocate fairly for matters of national importance.
In his televised address President Uhuru announced the resignation of the Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo and the replacement of Interior cabinet Secretary Joseph Ole Lenku. He went on to nominate the current Kajiado Central Member of Parliament Hon. Joseph Nkaiserry to the position vacated by Ole Lenku.

-The Friday Bulletin