Nairobi: The newly constituted National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has issued a strong warning against rising political intolerance, hate speech, ethnic incitement, and violent rhetoric, saying the growing trend threatens national unity, democratic governance, and peace in the country. Commission Chairperson Bishop Dr. Kefa Nyamweya Omae stated that the team assumes office at a critical moment when divisive politics and inflammatory public discourse are becoming increasingly prevalent across the country.
According to Kenya News Agency, Omae addressed the press on the rising political temperatures in the country, noting that the fully constituted Commission was ready to execute its constitutional mandate of promoting national cohesion and peaceful coexistence among Kenyans. He expressed concern over what he termed as deliberate disruptions of political meetings and public gatherings, inflammatory statements by politicians and their supporters, coordinated online attacks, ethnic profiling, and
demonization of individuals holding differing political views.
The chairperson emphasized that such actions undermine democratic principles and violate the Constitution and the National Cohesion and Integration Act. He cited Article 33 of the Constitution, noting that while every Kenyan has the right to freedom of expression, the law does not protect propaganda for war, incitement to violence, hate speech, or advocacy of hatred based on discrimination.
Omae pointed out that Article 10 of the Constitution enshrines national unity, human dignity, and social justice as binding national values, while the National Cohesion and Integration Act criminalizes ethnic contempt and hate speech. He declared these as legal obligations binding upon every Kenyan without exception.
The Commission condemned all forms of hate speech, ethnic incitement, political provocation, and violent rhetoric regardless of the political affiliation or social standing of those responsible. Omae stressed that no political cause justifies th
e dehumanization of fellow citizens or inflaming ethnic tensions.
The chairperson also addressed the misuse of digital platforms to spread divisive content, warning that online hate speech attracts the same legal consequences as remarks made in public forums. He reminded political leaders that leadership carries a responsibility to unite rather than divide citizens along ethnic or political lines.
Omae maintained that no individual would be shielded from accountability due to political influence or social status and reiterated that the Commission would enforce the law without fear or favor. He called on political parties to enforce discipline among their members and supporters to ensure adherence to constitutional and legal standards.
Political leaders were urged to embrace restraint, measured language, and respect for opponents, while publicly condemning hate speech and incitement within their own political formations. Omae emphasized that silence in the face of intolerance is itself a form of endorsement
.
The chairperson encouraged the youth not to allow themselves to be manipulated into acts of violence or political intolerance, asserting that Kenya’s future is best secured through peaceful, constructive, and lawful engagement. He also urged Kenyans to exercise responsibility when sharing or endorsing information online and offline.
Omae disclosed that the Commission has intensified monitoring of political discourse across various media and platforms. The Commission invited the public to report incidents of hate speech and political incitement through official channels.
He reiterated that Kenya’s ethnic, religious, linguistic, and political diversity should be viewed as a national strength rather than a source of division. Omae urged citizens to address political grievances through lawful and peaceful means.
The Commission pledged to work closely with political parties, civil society organizations, religious institutions, the media, and the public in promoting national cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
Omae called for political discourse that fosters unity and mutual respect among citizens.
