Release International

Kenyan Christians are coming under fire for campaigning against a draft constitution which they say would threaten religious freedom.

Six people died and 104 were injured when suspected grenades were thrown into the crowd at a prayer rally in Nairobi's Uhuru Park on June 13, organised by the Kenyan church. Many were hurt because the explosions caused a stampede.

The church is advocating a 'no' vote in the August 4 referendum on the draft constitution because it would include – and legitimise – Kadhi or Islamic courts. These courts deal mainly with matters related to marriage and inheritance for Kenya's Muslim minority. Christians fear that their inclusion in the new constitution would undermine religious tolerance and could cause religious conflict.

Supporters of the draft constitution are reportedly already threatening to use 'hate speech' laws to stall the church's 'no' campaign.

(Sources: Australian Evangelical Alliance Religious Liberty Commission, BBC, Daily Nation, VOM Australia)

• Pray that, whatever the outcome of the vote on the constitution on August 4, political and religious leaders of all faiths will work hard to uphold religious freedom in Kenya.
• Pray against further violence and unrest over this issue.

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