Kenya: Church condemns tribal killing of seven people

Archbishop Anthony Mukobo

At least seven people were brutally murdered on Friday, during a tribal assault in Ngaremara, in Isiolo County, in northeastern Kenya. Among the dead were two children. Nothing was stolen from the victims. The massacre was strongly condemned by Archbishop Anthony Ireri Mukobo, Apostolic Vicar of Isiolo. Mgr Mukobo said the government must provide adequate protection to its faithful and complained about the lack of law enforcement.

He said: "We have lost innocent people, including children going to school still in their uniforms. Due to insecurity, many families living in Daaba have fled their homes and taken refuge elsewhere. All schools in Ngaremara, Daaba, Arimet, Chumviele and Atan
have been closed".

Mgr Mukobo urged political leaders in the area to avoid fueling tribal conflicts for political purposes. The Bishop urged the government to convene a peace meeting for the tribes involved in the violence in a neutral venue.

"Let us be guided by the words of our national anthem. Let us ensure that justice is our shield and our defender, and that we may live together in unity, peace and freedom", concluded Mgr Mukobo. The Catholic Church is supporting survivors of the massacre.

Source: Fides/MISNA