Eastleigh

Muslims celebrate end of ID vetting as they mark Eid

Defence Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale accompanied by Kamukunji Member of Parliament Yusuf Hassan at the Eastleigh High School Grounds where hundreds of believers had assembled for prayers on April 10,2024. Photo: Abdirahman Khalif

By Abdirahman Khalif | Thursday, April 11, 2024

Defence CS condemned the prolonged vetting process as unlawful and fundamentally prejudiced, pointing out that such tactics have harmed Kenya's reputation since its independence

Defence Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale has lauded President Ruto's decision to end the controversial vetting process for Muslims applying for Kenyan national identification cards as a monumental win for the Muslim community and Kenya's democratic values.

Duale criticised the longstanding vetting exercise as unconstitutional and inherently prejudicial, pointing out that such practices have marred Kenya's reputation since gaining independence.

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President Ruto's announcement, made during an Iftar dinner at State House on Monday, outlined plans to eliminate vetting requirements starting May 1st, in a bid to prevent discrimination against individuals based on religion or region.

This bold move by President Ruto is seen as a pivotal moment in Kenya's pursuit of equality and justice for all its citizens, signalling a departure from policies that have, in the past, marginalised Muslim Kenyans.

"The vetting was illegal and was against our constitution, we thank the president for promising to do away with it," said Duale.

Furthermore, Duale revealed expedited procedures for Muslims planning to embark on the Hajj pilgrimage this year, assuring passport issuance within two to three days.

The Defence Cabinet Secretary was addressing at the Eastleigh High School grounds on Wednesday, accompanied by Kamukunji Member of Parliament Yusuf Hasan, where hundreds of believers had assembled for prayers.

During the Eid sermon, delivered by Imam Sheikh Abdullahi Yusuf, the significance of the day was emphasised, with a call for steadfastness in faith and a reminder to abstain from sin.

Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan echoed the Imam’s sentiments of unity and compassion, urging Muslims to remember the less fortunate and pray for those facing hardship.

"It is a happy day, it is a peaceful day, and we live in a harmonious and peaceful country," expressed Yusuf, emphasising the importance of collective prayers and solidarity.

Amidst the prayers, reminders were sent to the crowd, urging Muslims not to reduce the prayer and devotion maintained during Ramadan.

Outside the prayer grounds, the usual activities continued, with hawkers selling balloons to children and prayer mats to worshippers making their way to the venue.

Tight security measures were in place, with the deployment of several police officers ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for the celebrations.

Following the prayers, Muslims dispersed to various locations to partake in their first breakfast post-Ramadan, marking the beginning of festive gatherings and feasting among families and communities across the nation.