NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has sounded the alarm over a growing wave of political intolerance and inflammatory rhetoric, warning that the trend could threaten national unity and stoke ethnic tensions.
In a statement issued Tuesday, NCIC Chairperson Dr. Samuel Kobia expressed concern over what he described as a “perturbing trend” of incitement, insults, and ethnic-based mobilisation at recent public rallies across the country.
“There has been a perturbing trend in the last few weeks where some politicians have resorted to using uncouth language and hurling insults at one another,” said Dr. Kobia. “This conduct directly violates the principles enshrined in Chapter Six of our Constitution.”
The commission said the surge in hostile political exchanges not only undermines integrity in leadership but also chips away at Kenya’s gains in promoting national cohesion.
Ethnic Polarisation on the Rise
According to Dr. Kobia, some leaders have shifted from issue-based politics to confrontational narratives often laced with ethnic overtones.
The result, he said, is growing polarisation and a return to dangerous patterns that have historically triggered violence and communal discord.
“There is an emerging pattern where public gatherings are turning into platforms for ethnic mobilisation, which in turn leads to violence and destruction of property,” he said.
“This disturbing pattern mirrors a shift away from constructive political engagement and toward ethnic polarisation that divides communities. It undermines the very foundation of our democracy.”
Call for Restraint and Responsible Leadership
Dr. Kobia urged politicians to show restraint and embrace respectful dialogue, regardless of their ideological leanings. He warned that the current trajectory could derail the country’s progress if left unchecked.
“True democratic maturity lies not just in expressing divergent opinions, but in doing so responsibly and respectfully,” he said. “Political differences should never be a license for hostility or tribal animosity.”
He appealed to both political leaders and their supporters to prioritise the country’s peace and stability, cautioning against actions that could incite violence ahead of future political cycles.
“Holding different opinions should never make us enemies,” Dr. Kobia noted. “We must act as patriots committed to safeguarding the peace and unity that Kenya has enjoyed, and which remains essential for our continued development.”
The NCIC has been monitoring political discourse in the run-up to recent by-elections and public engagements, and it says it will continue to flag hate speech and incitement where it occurs.
