In a nation as religiously diverse as Kenya, the symbols and spaces of national governance carry immense weight. This truth was recently highlighted by a significant appeal from Muslim leaders in Mombasa, who have formally urged President William Ruto to consider constructing a mosque within the sacred grounds of State House. This isn't merely a request for a building; it's a profound call for greater inclusivity, a visible demonstration of religious balance, and a powerful statement about national unity at the very core of Kenyan leadership.
Led by the eloquent Sheikh Abu Qatada, these clerics have been at pains to clarify that their appeal is not born from a place of division or sectarian interest. Instead, it stems from a deeply held belief in fairness and a shared vision of unity that reflects the mosaic of Kenya's religious landscape. Sheikh Qatada's words, captured in a video that has since resonated widely, powerfully convey this sentiment: "This is not about division; it is about inclusion. State House ni mahali inayobeba watu wa dini zote…. nasi pia tunaomba ipatikane jengo la Waisilamu ili tukifika sahemu kama hiyo tupate sehemu ya kuswali." (State House is a place that represents people of all religions... we are simply requesting a place for Muslims to pray when we visit such a place.)
The essence of their argument lies in the principle of equitable representation. State House, as the official residence and workplace of the Head of State, serves all Kenyans, regardless of their faith. As such, the presence of dedicated worship spaces for different major religious groups is seen not as an extravagance, but as a crucial acknowledgement of the country's diverse spiritual fabric. This call comes amid a growing unease within some Muslim communities, who occasionally feel marginalized in national projects and initiatives that, to their perception, appear to disproportionately favour other religious denominations.
The context of this appeal is particularly pertinent given recent discussions surrounding President Ruto's personal initiative to construct a church within State House grounds. While President Ruto has affirmed that this project is personally funded and not utilizing public money, and has dismissed criticism by asserting his right to build a place of worship, the Muslim leaders' request seeks to extend the spirit of religious provision to all major faiths that constitute the Kenyan populace. Their argument is that if the head of state, in his capacity as a representative of all Kenyans, facilitates a place of worship for one faith, then the principle of inclusivity demands similar consideration for others.
