Leaders call for religious tolerance at first Parliamentary Iftar dinner

Calls for unity, religious tolerance, and political harmony dominated the inaugural Parliamentary Iftar dinner hosted at the Parliament Hospitality Gardens on Thursday evening.

The event, spearheaded by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and other parliamentary leaders, underscored the importance of national cohesion.

Speaker Wetang’ula urged Kenyans to embrace unity, citing the recent camaraderie between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga as an example to emulate.

He defended their reconciliation, emphasizing that national stability requires cooperation among leaders.

“Those bastardizing Mzee Raila Odinga don’t know what they are saying, because Mzee Raila has realized and said publicly that this country is bigger than anyone of us. At any one time, if you want to lead, you must accept to be led,” Wetang’ula stated.

He further noted, “Those who want to climb up the ladder can stand on the shoulders of those who support them, and when the time changes, you must also be ready to be stepped on for others to climb.”

Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry Aden Duale echoed the call for national unity, urging leaders to foster peace and religious tolerance.

“This is a month of peace, unity, prayers, and charity. I urge all leaders, regardless of ethnicity or religious affiliation, to support calls for national cohesion. Kenya is renowned for religious tolerance, and we must continue fostering that spirit,” he said.

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot praised the Parliamentary Service Commission for promoting inclusivity.

“This event reinforces the unity and inclusion championed by our national leaders. It ensures that our Muslim brothers and sisters feel valued as part of the parliamentary community, particularly during this sacred month,” he stated.

Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Hassan Ali Joho commended Parliament for institutionalizing the Iftar dinner as part of its annual calendar.

“This initiative by Parliament reflects what true inclusion means. It is heartening to see that the Iftar dinner will now be a regular event, demonstrating respect and recognition of the country’s diverse religious fabric,” he said.

Wajir Governor and Council of Governors Chairperson FCPA Ahmed Abdullahi lauded Speaker Wetang’ula for ensuring the welfare of Muslim MPs and parliamentary staff.

He pointed to the establishment of a modern prayer room in Parliament as a step toward accommodating Muslim faithful.

Leader of the Minority Party Junet Mohamed welcomed the initiative, highlighting its historical significance in Parliament. “

This is a remarkable gesture extended to us, the Muslim faithful. I am pleased that such a celebratory initiative was introduced during your tenure. I have served in Parliament for quite some time, including in the previous House, but never before has such an event been organized to honor the Muslim community. We commend you, Mr. Speaker,” he stated.

Junet further emphasized that the move reaffirmed that the Muslim faithful are an integral part of Parliament.

“We have everyone in Parliament, both educated and uneducated because there are no academic qualifications required to serve. Members are elected to represent the people, which is why we are referred to as the people's representatives,” he added.

The Iftar dinner brought together religious leaders, members of the judiciary, business executives, and key government officials, including Chief Kadhi, judges, magistrates, and Premier Bank CEO Osman Dualle.

The event served as a platform for strengthening interfaith dialogue and fostering unity within the country.