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Eye on the World: elections in Kenya
Six years after a disputed, violent presidential election, Kenyans are voting this week in what observers are describing as the most important in the country’s history. This is the first general election since the 2007 poll that sparked weeks of tribal violence, and this time officials have made a concerted effort to ensure a peaceful vote. Though two machete attacks — thought to be perpetuated by a separatist movement — occurred early in the morning on the country’s coast, Kenya has seen nothing like the 2007 violence so far.
For a good primer on post-2007 Kenya, written from a spiritual perspective, you’ll want to read “Rebuilding Kenya.” The author discusses how the country’s political situation presented (and presents) a picture of dualism — of tension between groups of competing interests. But by allowing our viewpoint to be guided up higher, we recognize that all parties and individuals are united by God, whose government excludes no one.
“Spirit-based conflict resolution,” written shortly after the contested 2007 elections, discusses how each of us can prayerfully contribute to peace and stability in the region through prayer. The author notes wisely that “The prayer that can transform society is not a composite of sweeping generalizations or wistful thinking. It is specific acknowledgment of God's power and of His government.” By relying on God as the only power, we can disarm latent mistrust, including that based on tribal or ethnic factors, and uphold each individual’s divine right to witness harmony and security.
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