Awake O Ye Silent Religions and Promote Post- Conflict Reconciliation!

Peace building during and after ethnic clashes is not an easy task both for either the government or community institutions. This is because such a conflict touches on the very basic core of co-existence between and among individuals in the community. This paper seeks to examine the role of religious institutions in peace building prior to and after the 2007 post-elections violence (PEV) in Kenya. It contextualizes the challenges faced by religious groups after the PEV. The author builds an argument that supports the view that religious institutions have a role to play in peace building. Using Klopp’s (2002) concept of liberal versus illiberal nationalism, the author explains how religious institutions in Kenya, if well managed and used, can be a voice for the voiceless communities especially during and after conflicts largely triggered by the political leaders in the country. The arguments herein will also offer lessons learned about post-conflict peace communications in Kenya.

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