Atheists in Kenya have given Machakos governor, Alfred Mutua, 24 hours to apologise over his sentiments against Azimio La Umoja One Kenya running mate nominee, Martha Karua, failure to which they will raise the matter with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC).
According to the statement dated Friday, May 20, the Atheists have castigated Mutua for referring to Karua as an anti-religion, which the organisation described as inciting and discriminatory against its members.
Harrison Mumia, the society's president, stated that Karua is qualified to lead the nation whether she is a believer or not.
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"Progressive political leadership is per cent possible without religious belief. It doesn't matter whether Martha Karua is an atheist or not, she can still make a great leader.
"Alfred Mutua's remarks show that he lacks an understanding of the concept of religious freedom and Constitutionalism at large. Such remarks are responsible for the stigma and discrimination that non-believers in Kenya face," stated the Atheists group.
Defending its statement, the society noted that the freedom of worship is enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution.
"Every person has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief and opinion. Every person has the right, either individually or in community with others, in public or in private, to manifest any religion or belief through worship, practice, teaching, or observance, including observance of a day of worship."
Mutua while attending Kenya Kwanza engagement forum in Nakuru, allegedly referred to the Narc Kenya leader, Martha Karua, as a person who does not believe in God.
"Will you accept someone who does not believe in God to enter into the country's leadership position?" Mutua questioned.
Karua has been on a series of tours in the Mt Kenya region popularising the Azimio La Umoja outfit led by ODM leader, Raila Odinga.
Addressing rallies in Timau, Kiirua, Makutano, Kianjai, Muthara, Karama, Kangeta, Laare, and Maua towns, Karua, said the Azimio coalition leaders have a track record of defending the interests of Kenyans.
"You should be keen not to elect leaders who have a tainted past. Our promise is to fix the economy by fighting corruption and dealing with the corrupt. We should not waste our vote," she stated.
She further dared Kenya Kwanza leaders to face her directly instead of paying the youth to heckle her during rallies.
She was accompanied by Agriculture CS Peter Munya, Jubilee Party secretary-general, Jeremiah Kioni, Kieni MP Kanini Kega and Murang'a Woman Rep, Sabina Chege, among others.
