National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has challenged the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to rebuild public trust and take a more proactive role in combating hate speech, political incitement, and ethnic polarization ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a meeting with NCIC commissioners at Parliament Buildings on Wednesday, Wetang’ula said the commission should not be viewed as an institution that only becomes active during election periods.
“NCIC suffers from serious trust issues. The Commission was formed from the ashes of the 2007 post-election violence to bridge divisions created by political differences. It should not be active only during elections,” he said.
Civic education is key to national unity
The Speaker said long-term national cohesion can only be achieved through continuous civic education aimed at changing attitudes and fostering tolerance among citizens.
He emphasized that ethnicity itself is not a problem, but the misuse of ethnic identity to discriminate against or marginalize others.
“There is nothing wrong with belonging to a particular ethnic community. The problem comes when that identity is used to oppress and disadvantage others,” Wetang’ula said.
He urged NCIC to work closely with the Ministry of Education to cultivate a culture of unity among young people.
Call for stronger partnerships
Wetang’ula also called on the commission to deepen collaboration with institutions including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Judiciary, and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
He noted that while NCIC has investigative powers, successful prosecution of hate speech and incitement cases depends on cooperation with other agencies.
“NCIC needs to carve out its niche, clean its own house, and earn the respect of Kenyans. Parliament will support the Commission within the law,” he said.
NCIC unveils 2027 roadmap
NCIC Chairperson Bishop Kepha Omae said the commission had already begun implementing a roadmap for the 2027 elections focused on prevention, engagement, and collaboration.
“We have a roadmap. We are seeking collaborations with other agencies and all political players in the country. We seek to end polarisation and ethnicity,” Omae said.
He added that the commission would engage political leaders, religious leaders, elders, and learning institutions to promote responsible leadership and peaceful coexistence.
Meanwhile, NCIC Commissioner Jerusha Mwaathime called for stronger legal provisions to enhance the commission’s investigative mandate, saying expanded powers would enable more comprehensive investigations into hate speech and related offences.
The renewed calls come as political activity begins to intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, with concerns growing over divisive rhetoric and ethnic-based politics.
