Calls for Unity as North Rift Muslims Slam Delays, Bias in Passport Issuance
“We continue to witness widespread discrimination—delays spanning months, unnecessary interrogations, and, in many cases, documents inexplicably disappearing,” Sheikh Salat said.
Hundreds of Muslim faithful gathered in Kenya’s North Rift region to observe Eid al-Adha, a momentous occasion marked by prayer, reflection, and communal sacrifice. The event was underscored by calls for national unity, equitable governance, and international justice—all especially resonant as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Imam Hussein Mohamed, who led the prayers, expressed alarm over the early escalation of electioneering, cautioning that it could undermine the delivery of essential public services and fracture community cohesion.
“We are already witnessing premature political campaigns. This threatens service delivery and risks destabilizing vulnerable communities. We must not allow politics to divide us; instead, we must uphold unity and coexistence.”
He urged the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to take resolute action against hate speech and inflammatory discourse by politicians.
“Our peace and stability cannot be taken for granted. Those who sow division must be held accountable before their words turn into conflict.”
Discrimination in Passport Processes: A Barrier to Opportunity
Deputy Imam Sheikh Abdirizak Issack drew attention to systemic discrimination faced by Muslims during the passport application and vetting process.
“We continue to witness widespread discrimination—delays spanning months, unnecessary interrogations, and, in many cases, Hassan documents inexplicably disappearing,” Sheikh Issack said.
He emphasized how these inefficiencies have tangible consequences for hundreds of young Muslims who possess valid employment offers abroad but remain trapped due to withheld or delayed passports.
“It is disheartening to see hardworking youth—many with legitimate job opportunities—left in limbo because of systemic inefficiencies and apparent religious profiling.”
Religious leaders collectively urged the government to overhaul the passport issuance system to ensure fairness, transparency, and equal treatment regardless of faith or geography.
Global Justice and the Gaza Crisis
Businessman Zulfikar Bachu also took the platform to appeal to the United States to pressure Israel for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and to demand accountability for the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
“We have seen America advocate for peace between Russia and Ukraine, yet we have not witnessed the same resolve to end Israel’s hostilities against Gaza, where hundreds of Palestinians are being killed,” he stated, calling urgently for U.S. leadership on justice and human rights.
The Spiritual Essence of Eid al-Adha
Sheikh Abubakar Bini offered spiritual insight, reaffirming Eid al-Adha’s deep roots in the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him). He emphasized the religious imperatives of sharing the Qurbani (sacrificial) meat—divided among family, friends, and those in need.
Traditional Islamic sources affirm this: the meat of the sacrifice is customarily split into three portions—one for personal consumption, one for relatives and guests, and one allocated to the poor and needy .
Sheikh Bini reflected on the broader symbolism:
“This act teaches obedience, compassion, and community solidarity. It reminds us that sacrifice transcends ritual—it’s about sharing blessings with others, nurturing compassion, and upholding social responsibility.”
A Worldwide Call for Peace Amid Hardship
Across the globe, Eid al-Adha was observed under challenging conditions—from economic strain to conflict zones—but remained an occasion for prayer, resilience, and calls for unity. In Gaza, even amid rubble and food scarcity, Muslims gathered to commemorate the day, echoing the universal themes of sacrifice and solidarity .
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