Nairobi — Historical injustices, uneven distribution of resources and poor political leadership are to blame for ethnic flare-ups in the country, Molo council of elders have said.

The elders - drawn from Njoro, Molo and Kuresoi districts - warned during a peace forum that the violence that erupted after the 2007 General Election would recur if the root causes were not addressed.

The group's meeting at Olenguruone, was organised by the Abantu for Development Initiative. One of the elders, Mr Paul Lessan, said all past governments had acted unjustly, with leaders rewarding their cronies while making others suffer.

Mr Lessan gave an example of a move by the current government to allocate members from one community a parcel of land in Molo while ignoring others in the district.

He said it was unfair for the government to settle only 300 people from one community, leaving out other groups that were landless and vulnerable.

The land was bought from former Defence minister Njenga Karume to resettle victims of 1992 clashes.

He said a policy framework should be drawn under the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission for restoration of peace and reintegration of communities.

"As elders in this region we are appealing for unifying voices in articulating, demanding and influencing the delivery of equitable services, resources and accountable leaders," he said.

An official of the Abantu, Mr Tony Ng'ang'a, called on the government to improve democratic governance processes by enhancing knowledge through capacity building among community elders.

Mr Ng'ang'a said implementation of judicial, constitutional and land reforms would create a bridge to lasting peace in the country to avoid a repeat of the poll chaos.

The elders said the government and the civil society should hold forums with various community leaders aimed at ensuring sustainable peace.