Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,I truly hope you'll take a moment to read over this note. And after you're done, all I ask is that you pause for one short minute to pray.
I have not written about the situation in Kenya. Maybe some of you have heard, maybe not. I would like to share more with you now whatever the case.
On December 27th, there were elections for president in Kenya. Elections in Kenya are never peaceful, nothing like what we experience in the US. (Another reason to be thankful.) Rioting, tribal conflict, and killing, always mar elections in much of Africa and Kenya is no exception. (The picture to the left was taken in Mombasa.)
But this time was particularly brutal. The opposition party has claimed the elections were rigged. European Union observers agree. But the incumbent president has shown no intentions of stepping down. It is estimated that more than 600 people have been murdered and that more than a quarter of a million have been chased away from their homes. And these numbers are expected to increase as the demonstrations and riots continue even today. Here are some words from friends and coworkers who are still in Kenya experiencing the turmoil firsthand:
- “The disputed elections have caused the ugly head of tribalism to rear its head in a shocking turn of events. Most of the deaths have been the result of ethnic cleansing and violence against people who are perceived to be government friendly as well as shooting by police - in many places they are using live bullets to ‘disperse’ rioters.”
- “The country has been shattered and over 250,000 people have are now refugees in their own country.”
- “His Kalenjin [a Kenyan tribe] neighbors are mad at him and threatening to burn his house down and cause he and his family harm”
- “The situation is critical. There is widespread looting, clashes with police, and rioting.
- “Gunfire just outside their home.”
- “The Minister for Internal Security has banned all live broadcasts on TV concerning the situation.”
- “Things are not well here. Kuna fujo zhomu. [There are serious problems.] Shops are closed. People are hoarding food. Hali si mbidzo. [The situation is not good.]”
- “When you called I had just come from Malindi talking to Christine Khadija’s parents. Parents here are really worried for their children traveling upcountry. As I was typing this email, Luganje called too expressing his fears if the students travel to Nairobi. I encouraged them to leave everything to God. This is not easy brother because deep inside me I am also a bit worried. Always remember us in your prayers.”
The people are rioting. The candidates are arguing and spew bitter words at each other in the media. International mediators from all over have tried to bring peace and reconciliation. All have failed. Kofi Annan, the former United Nations Secretary General failed. Condoleezza Rice has tried as well. Now let’s bring it before the only one who can bring true peace. Please pray now for peace, safety, and healing before things get worse.
