NAIROBI, Kenya – Mukurwe-ini MP John Kaguchia has appeared before the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to assist with investigations into remarks he allegedly made during a political rally in Nyeri.
Mukurwe-ini Member of Parliament John Kaguchia on Monday appeared before the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over remarks allegedly linked to hate speech and political incitement ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kaguchia honoured the commission’s summons accompanied by his legal team led by lawyer Ndegwa Njiru. The legislator held discussions with the NCIC legal team as the commission continues investigations into statements he made during a political gathering in Kieni, Nyeri County, on August 1, 2026.
Speaking after appearing before the commission, Kaguchia maintained that he was a law-abiding citizen and would allow the legal process to take its course.
However, the MP accused authorities of applying the law selectively, arguing that leaders allied to the government had also made remarks he considered inflammatory without facing similar action.
“The law must be applied objectively and fairly to all Kenyans. I feel that too much attention has been given to Kaguchia whereas we all know what is happening in the country,” he said.
NCIC warns politicians against inflammatory rhetoric
NCIC Chairperson Bishop Dr Kepha Nyamweya Omae urged political leaders to exercise restraint in their public engagements as Kenya heads towards the 2027 General Election.
Omae said hate speech had no place in the country and called on politicians and members of the public to promote peaceful political discourse.
“When it comes to hate speech, it has no place in Kenya. Let us all be peace ambassadors in all our engagements. We have a shared responsibility to do that,” he said.
The NCIC chairperson further urged political leaders to avoid narratives that could deepen ethnic divisions.
“I appeal to all political leaders and Kenyans of goodwill to restrain from uttering narratives which will polarise this nation along ethnic lines,” Omae added.
Kaguchia’s controversial Kieni remarks
The NCIC investigation follows remarks Kaguchia allegedly made at a political rally in Kieni on August 1.
The MP warned residents against voting for President William Ruto in the 2027 election, with his comments allegedly suggesting that those who supported the President would subsequently be identified and targeted at their homes.
The remarks triggered condemnation and legal action, with Kaguchia subsequently arrested on August 3 at Citizen TV studios.
He was later taken to court and charged with offensive conduct conducive to breaches of the peace.
His lawyers have challenged the charge, arguing that the charge sheet is fundamentally defective and does not disclose an offence.
The defence team has also argued that the charge sheet fails to identify the alleged victims or clearly state the complainants, which they contend limits Kaguchia’s ability to adequately prepare his defence.
Political tensions rise ahead of 2027
Kaguchia’s appearance before the NCIC comes amid heightened political activity across the country as political parties and emerging movements intensify preparations for the 2027 General Election.
The commission has increasingly warned politicians against inflammatory language, particularly remarks capable of fuelling ethnic hostility or political violence.
The investigation also comes against a backdrop of growing disputes between government and opposition-aligned politicians over political rallies, alleged mobilisation of youths and accusations of incitement.
Kaguchia has maintained that the law should be applied equally to politicians across the political divide.
The NCIC is expected to continue examining the remarks and other evidence before determining whether further action is warranted.
Meanwhile, Kaguchia’s separate court proceedings remain subject to directions from the court.
