Cheptais Muslims endorse Cheren for Mt.Elgon parliamentary seat

By Isabella Maua

Muslims from Cheptais led by their chairperson Shaban Sagana have endorsed and given their blessings to Silas Cheren, an independent MP aspirant in Mt. Elgon to run for the parliamentary position.

Speaking during the colourful event at Cheptais Mosque, Shaban thanked Cheren for walking with them and acknowledged the fact that he has been the only aspirant and leader who has visited them and prioritized their needs.

“Muslims have been neglected for far too long in Mt.Elgon and so we are grateful for your consideration to walk with us and give us priority as a marginalized community so to speak,” Shaban remarked.

Rashid Chapati Abdalla, MCA aspirant for Cheptais ward harmoniously agreed with Shaban’s sentiments and by extension called upon other aspirants to stop neglecting them.

“Many politicians take Muslims for granted because they assume we are very few and can as well not count in making them win;5,000 votes are not to be neglected,” he cautioned.

While addressing the congregants, Cheren pledged to expand their mosque by buying land for them and extending their building so as to accommodate the upcoming generation.

“My father gave this land to our Muslims brothers and sisters and I’m today promising that I’ll ensure a larger parcel of land is purchased to ensure you worship with more dignity,” Cheren affirmed.

The accountant come politician further mentioned that he has a personally special interest in Muslims since he has long lived with them in Garrissa and even acquired a new name.

“Being in Garissa for more than 6 years made me understand and  appreciate your religion and culture and I was baptized Said, also being an Adventist, we have a special mutual relationship where we religiously compliment each other,” Cheren reiterated.

Ibrahim Ali Nabwela an Imaam at the mosque called upon other aspirants to borrow a leaf from Cheren and maintain a peaceful campaigns.