Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Wednesday joined the Somali community in Mwingi for Eid celebrations, using the occasion to call for peace, unity and dialogue following the recent deadly clashes that paralysed the town and left several families grieving.
Kalonzo, who was accompanied by Kitui Woman Representative Dr Irene Kasalu and other leaders, said the violence that recently erupted in Mwingi was unfortunate and avoidable, noting that communities in the region have coexisted peacefully for decades.
Speaking during the Eid gathering, the former Vice President said the long-standing relationship between the Somali and local communities in Mwingi should never be destroyed by division and suspicion.
“What struck me most is that this did not have to happen. We have lived side by side here since before independence. That is not a small thing,” Kalonzo said.
The former Vice President recalled his 28 years in government as MP, Cabinet Minister and Vice President, saying peace and stability in the region had always been a priority during his leadership.
He described Mwingi as one of the fastest-growing towns in Kenya, warning that conflict threatens the progress and economic growth built over many years by residents.
“Mwingi is today one of the fastest growing towns in Kenya. That progress belongs to its people, and we must protect it,” he stated.
Kalonzo further linked the need for peace in Mwingi to broader regional stability, citing his long involvement in peacebuilding efforts in Somalia.
“I have spent much of my life working to bring peace to Somalia. I know too well what happens when communities turn on each other. Kenya must never go there,” he said.
The Wiper leader urged political leaders, elders and residents to embrace dialogue and reconciliation instead of hostility, saying peacebuilding requires deliberate and continuous efforts from all sides.
“We are each our brother’s and sister’s keeper and that is a responsibility, not just a saying,” he added.
Quoting the Holy Quran, Kalonzo appealed for healing and brotherhood during the Eid celebrations.
“And if they incline toward peace, then incline toward it also,” he quoted from Surah Al-Anfal (8:61).
He concluded by wishing Muslims a peaceful Eid Mubarak and expressing hope that the celebrations would renew unity among communities in Mwingi and across the country.
