Kenya - Post Election Crisis 2008 - Continued...
Since the disputed re-election of Mwai Kibaki as President of Kenya in December 2007, violence has escalated in the country and degenerated into ethnic clashes. Over 1,000 people have lost their lives, and Kenya had up to 300,000 internally displaced people at the height of the crisis. Through giving into Springs of Africa, we have been able to distribute blankets, medicines, food, and other emergency relief.
In the now-deserted village of Kiambaa, about 10 kilometers outside Eldoret town, stand the charred remains of an Assemblies of God church building where about 40 people perished on 1st January.
Naomi Wairimu, a survivor from this tragic event, explains: "We had gone to the church on the night of 31st December for safety since we had received a warning to evacuate the area. The next morning, when we thought all was fine, we came out to go to our homes. But we noticed houses burning around us, and ran back into the church. That is when it happened."
She explained how at about 11 a.m. on the 1st of January, arsonists came, barricaded the entrance and set the building on fire. "Many of us were able to escape through the small door at the back. I was with my sister but she had her baby on her back, and the blanket caught fire. They were badly burnt but are alive in the hospital. I couldn't help her; it was each man for himself. Some mothers with children were able to save one or two, but lost others in the confusion. Those who did not escape were burnt to ashes." |
At some point, violence seemed to be spinning out of control in many parts of the nation. While triggered by the political crisis, the root cause is actually a replay of old wounds from generations past, caused by disputed land settlements, oppression, and marginalization of certain groups. The lasting solution to Kenya’s problem, therefore, must put in place a process that will bring out the truth, and emphasize repentance, forgiveness and reconciliation. It is only then that righteousness will exalt this nation and peace will prevail.
The crisis we are going through gives Kenya an opportunity to look at the ugly side and recognize the pain of those that are marginalized and oppressed, the undercurrents of hatred and bitterness, the festering wounds of injustice, the animal desire to revenge and the potential for destruction. It is an opportunity to address these issues, recognize their roots and squarely deal with these in a redemptive and healing process.
As Christians in Kenya, we should not waste this opportunity. We must cooperate with the cleansing that God wants to do in this land, and position ourselves to reach out even in the time of greatest need. Please continue to pray with us that the spirit of revenge will be silenced by the power and love of God. He is our hope, help and strength.
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