Allow Us Access Worship Centres; KEMNAC Tells Gov’t
KEMNAC Chair Sheikh Juma Ngao at a past function. Image: (Courtesy)
By PETER KOMBE
Email: thecoastnewspaper@gmial.com
The Kenya Muslims National Advisory Council (KEMNAC) has urged the government to open mosques in areas less affected by the Corona pandemic.
The council however insists that such mosques must strictly adhere to all directives issued by government.
Addressing the media in Mombasa town KEMNAC Chairperson Sheikh Juma Ngao said Imams and sheikhs that will defy government directives of social distancing should remain closed.
He further advised Kenyans to strictly adhere to all precautionary measures devoid of fear of the disease.
“Up to when shall we close mosques? According to experts Corona is a long term disease. The government should lay down strict procedures that muslims faithfuls will follw,” Ngao noted.
He termed it illogical for the government to open hotels and restaurants while places of worship such as mosques are closed.
The KEMNAC chair however noted that areas still recording massive numbers of affected persons should still remain closed.
The chair also took issue with the sh200billion corona pandemic funds.
“This week the government has received over sh200billion. How is this money being spent? Where is this money? The chair quizzed.
He also wants the government to import the Madagascar herbal organic medicine claiming it is an appropriate cure to the pandemic.
Meanwhile KEMNAC Chief Advisor Juma Omar Abdulrazak accused police officers on claims of harassing locals without face masks.
He said currently the government has not distributed free face masks and arresting citizens without them is tantamount to infringement of their rights.
“We are worried about some of the police officers. The president should do something about this. There are no face masks,” Omar pointed out.
The advisor however lauded efforts by the national government in addressing the pandemic.
Shahame Mwaringa a council member urged the government to declare amnesty to all prisoners arrested during this pandemic.
According to him, prison cells are crowded a move he argues threatens the health of the inmates.
“Prison cells are now crowded because police arrest people and place them in cells. The government should declare amnesty to these prisoners,” he noted.
