The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has launched investigations into ten prominent individuals, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and two sitting Cabinet Secretaries, over statements that may constitute hate speech or ethnic incitement ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In a joint statement released on July 28 with the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya (IRCK), the commission confirmed its Investigations and Compliance Department is independently probing remarks attributed to the following individuals:

  • Rigathi Gachagua
  • Cabinet Secretaries Aden Duale and Geoffrey Ruku
  • Busia Governor Paul Nyongesa Otuoma
  • Mandera Deputy Governor Ali Maalim Mohamud
  • Sirisia MP John Waluke
  • Wanjiku Muhia
  • David Gikaria
  • Tipape Naini Musa
  • Dr Dennis Adison Ouma

The NCIC emphasized that all investigations adhere strictly to due process, respecting the constitutional rights of those involved, including the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise.

"No individual, regardless of office or standing, is beyond the reach of the law where credible allegations of hate speech or ethnic incitement arise," the statement noted.

The commission operates independently under the National Cohesion and Integration Act of 2008 and is guided solely by evidence and the law, free from political influence or interference.

NCIC cautioned against narratives that assign collective blame based on ethnicity, religion, or region, stressing that criminal acts are personal responsibilities and not attributable to entire communities or groups.

Following a consultative meeting with faith leaders through IRCK, the NCIC chairman, Bishop Dr Kepha Omae, received messages urging firm and impartial action against hate speech, ethnic mobilisation, political incitement, and misuse of social media platforms.

The two institutions highlighted a worrying rise in political intolerance across counties, media, and social networks, with language increasingly used to dehumanize opponents and cast entire communities as adversaries.

"Hate speech is not free speech. It is an assault on human dignity and on the constitutional order that binds this nation together," the statement said, recalling Kenya's painful history with ethnic violence and urging vigilance to prevent repetition.

Collaborative Measures to Promote Peace

NCIC and IRCK committed to strengthening cooperation in key areas such as:

  • Real-time monitoring and early-warning systems for hate speech alongside the National Police Service
  • Promoting conflict-sensitive media reporting
  • Developing peace pledges and cohesion protocols for political rallies
  • Establishing national and county-level mediation teams
  • Reviving multi-stakeholder platforms like the UWIANO Platform for Peace
  • Expanding county interfaith networks and disseminating peace messages in places of worship
  • Setting up peace clubs in learning institutions supported by religious bodies

Both bodies appealed to political leaders to focus on fair competition rather than undermining opponents' dignity, warned against deploying violence during political events, and called on youth to reject divisive recruitment efforts.

Citizens were urged to report hate speech and avoid amplifying it, with the statement concluding, "Kenya's unity is non-negotiable." Proactive and coordinated efforts are deemed essential to reduce risks of violence and ensure a peaceful, inclusive, and credible electoral process in 2027.