Marende cautions on loose talk, urges politicians to build peace

By ROSELYNE OBALASpeaker Kenneth Marende has urged the public to shun leaders who incite them against each other.
Mr Marende said Kenyans should reconcile following differences that emerged after the December 2007 presidential elections.
He said Kenya is bigger than any individual, adding citizens should never allow leaders to divide them along ethnic lines. "It is the obligation of leaders to contribute to peace building," said the Speaker.
He continued: "You can wish me well because I have the ability to lead. Don’t wish me well because I am your tribesman." Marende cautioned Kenyans against paying attention to statements bound to incite ethnic passions. He spoke at Mukumu Girls during celebrations to mark the school’s 50 years of existence.
"All Kenyans are equal. We should treat our neighbours well without keeping grudges or resorting to our tribes for protection," he said.
The Speaker’s appeal comes in the wake of a warning from the International Criminal Court to the ‘Ocampo Six’ against hate speech.
On Sunday, Marende said inciters were selfish people, who don’t care for the wellbeing of other Kenyans.
Shinyalu MP Justus Kizito accused the Government of allegedly aiding the ‘Ocampo Six’ by allegedly hiring lawyers and funding their travel costs to The Hague.