NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has put politicians on notice over rising cases of hate speech, ethnic profiling and divisive political rhetoric, warning that it will intensify surveillance and take firm action against individuals found undermining national cohesion ahead of the next General Election.
Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, NCIC Chairperson Bishop Dr. Kepha Nyamweya Omae expressed concern over what he described as an increase in inflammatory political statements capable of fuelling ethnic tensions and undermining national unity.
“Over the past few months, we have noted a rising trend of political rhetoric bordering on hate speech and ethnic content. As a Commission, we are deeply concerned by such regrettable ethnic profiling and statements capable of inciting hostility among communities. This must stop,” Omae said.
He warned that unchecked hate speech and ethnic mobilisation threaten Kenya’s democratic stability and social cohesion, urging leaders across the political divide to exercise restraint in their public engagements.
“Hate speech threatens national cohesion and weakens public confidence in our democratic institutions. We therefore urge all political leaders, regardless of political affiliation, to exercise restraint in their public engagements,” he said.
Omae reminded political leaders that their words carry significant influence and should be used to unite rather than divide the country.
“Leadership carries a solemn responsibility, and every statement made by a leader has the potential either to unite or divide the nation. We can’t follow that path,” he said.
The Commission called on politicians to reject ethnic mobilisation and refrain from exploiting community differences for political gain, stressing that expressions promoting hatred, discrimination, violence and ethnic intolerance remain criminal offences under the National Cohesion and Integration Act and other applicable laws.
To curb inflammatory political messaging, NCIC announced it will strengthen monitoring of political rallies, mainstream media, digital platforms and other public spaces in collaboration with key State agencies.
“We will continue to closely monitor public discourse across political rallies, mainstream media, digital platforms and other public spaces,” Omae said.
He added that the Commission will work closely with the Communications Authority of Kenya, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) and other relevant institutions to identify and hold accountable individuals responsible for divisive political messaging.
“We will work very closely with other agencies to name and shame any political leader that will embark on engaging in political polarisation and ethnic profiling,” he said.
Omae also warned against the use of organised gangs and violence to intimidate political opponents during the election period, saying the Commission would act without fear or favour.
“Even the aspect of goons in this country must stop. Our eyes shall be on, and we will act decisively without fear and favour,” he said.
He urged political parties, aspirants and their supporters to uphold responsible leadership, respect diversity and conduct peaceful campaigns, maintaining that safeguarding national cohesion remains a shared responsibility as the country prepares for the next General Election.