NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has reiterated that it will not rely on viral social media videos, including TikTok clips, when investigating alleged hate speech and incitement cases, insisting that all inquiries must be initiated through formal complaints lodged under the law.
Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, NCIC Chairperson Bishop Dr. Kepha Nyamweya Omae said the commission follows strict legal procedures and cannot commence investigations solely on the basis of videos circulating online.
“Before we carry out any investigation, it is important for Kenyans to know there has to be complaints. You don’t begin to act on TikTok clips,” Omae said.
He noted that the commission must first verify the authenticity of the material presented before opening investigations.
“Until someone raises a formal complaint, it puts us in a very awkward situation because we don’t know whether the clip that was sent was AI-generated. We have to be sure it is a legitimate complaint,” he added.
Ten Leaders Under Investigation
The commission disclosed that ten prominent individuals are currently under investigation following complaints formally lodged with the NCIC over remarks that could amount to hate speech or ethnic incitement.
Those under investigation include:
- Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua;
- Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale;
- Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku;
- Busia Governor Paul Nyongesa Otuoma;
- Mandera Deputy Governor Ali Maalim Mohamud;
- Sirisia MP John Waluke;
- Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia;
- Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria;
- Tipape Naini Musa; and
- Dr Dennis Adison Ouma.
The commission said its Investigations and Compliance Department is conducting independent inquiries into the allegations, emphasising that no individual is above the law.
Appeal for Peaceful Politics
NCIC also appealed to political leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and the mobilisation of criminal gangs during political activities as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
The commission urged politicians to uphold national cohesion and conduct issue-based campaigns that promote peaceful coexistence.
Gachagua Responds
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who is under investigation over his “kill the snake and its eggs” remarks, defended his comments, arguing that they were metaphorical rather than literal.
Speaking at an event in Meru on Tuesday, Gachagua maintained that the remarks referred to defeating President William Ruto and his allies through the ballot.
“Sisi tuseme hatuna hate speech, sisi tunatumia figurative language kwa sababu sisi ni wanafunzi wa literature. Kumuuwa nyoka ni kufukuza William Ruto kwa kura, kuuwa mayai ni kufukuza wafuasi wake wote kwa kura. That is what we mean,” he said.
He further challenged the commission to formally notify him if it intends to pursue the matter.
The NCIC has maintained that all individuals under investigation are entitled to due process and that any enforcement action will be guided by the Constitution and applicable laws.
