“Unjustifiable acts of violence” which “have not only resulted in the loss of innocent lives” but also “created a sense of insecurity among Christians and all peace loving Kenyans”. Card. John Njue, archbishop of Nairobi and chairman of the Kenyan Bishops’ Conference, on behalf of all bishops of the country, said that he was “greatly concerned” by yesterday’s deadly attacks on the Catholic Cathedral in Garissa and on the evangelical “Africa Inland Church”. At least 17 people lost their lives in the attacks and 50 others were wounded. The cardinal stated that although he believes that “this is not a religious war”, he is “disturbed that the attacks were carried out in Christian churches” and invites all Kenyans to work towards promoting peaceful coexistence. Card. Njue calls on the people to “remain vigilant” and “cooperate” with security agencies, reminding that “fighting terrorism, extremism and insecurity” is a duty not just for security agencies but for “each and every Kenyan because terrorists and criminals operate amongst us”. While sending his “condolences” to the families and friends of the victims and praying “for a quick recovery” of the injured, the cardinal finally asks the government and security agencies to “chart a way forward that ensures the security of all Kenyans”.

02/07/2012 -