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Kenyans join Pope Francis in praying for a peaceful presidential election re-run

Kenyans join Pope Francis in praying for a peaceful presidential election re-run

Kenya

Kenyans on Sunday prayed for the country as it faces a period of political uncertainty days before a repeat presidential election.

At various church services held across the country ,believers prayed for peace as the East African nation prepares for the presidential election re-run.

“And today we pray for our country, we all know that there has been a lot of political chaos in our country and we are being urged by our bishops in Kenya that we take this time to pray for our country especially now that we are preparing for another election’‘, said Father Francis ,Priest at Holy Family Basilica.

Reuters reports that crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square with flags and banners ,while Pope Francis appeared at a window of Papal apartment and greeted the crowds.

“I ask you to join my prayers for peace in the world. In recent days, I am following with close attention the situation in Kenya, which I visited in 2015, and I pray that the country be able to tackle the current difficulties in a climate of constructive dialogue, having a heartfelt quest for the common good”,he added.

Kenya’s Supreme Court annulled the first election, held in August and won by incumbent Uhuru Kenyatta, over procedural irregularities.

The opposition, led by Raila Odinga, has said it will boycott the re-run set for Thursday (October 26) unless several demands are met, including the sacking of the chief executive of the electoral commission, Ezra Chiloba.

Chiloba has officially taken three weeks leave and will not be involved in the election.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (I.E.B.C) has said the election will go ahead and Kenyatta, has insisted the vote must be held. On Thursday, the president snubbed an invitation to meet Chebukati, saying he would instead spend the time campaigning.

Meanwhile, Pope Francis has urged Catholics to pray for world peace, with a focus on Kenya.

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