NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has nominated Kepha Nyamweya Omae as chairperson of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), alongside seven proposed members, in appointments subject to approval by the National Assembly of Kenya.
In a notification issued by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, the President said the nominations followed recommendations of a selection panel tasked with identifying suitable candidates for appointment to the commission.
“His Excellency the President has this morning caused nominations to the ranks of the membership of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC),” the notice read in part.
It added that the nominees would assume office subject to parliamentary approval.
According to the communication, the nominees include Ms. Josphine Kirion Eragae (Isiolo), Mr. Joseph K. Nguyo (Nyeri), Mr. Jackson Said Kedogo (Vihiga), Dr. Samuel Mwachiro Mwawasi (Taita Taveta), Ms. Irene Chepoisho Tulel (West Pokot), Mr. Hassan Billow Ahmed (Wajir), and Mr. Jerusah Mwaathime Michael (Kitui).
Koskei said the Executive Office of the President of Kenya had already notified Parliament to begin the vetting process.
The Head of State also urged lawmakers to prioritise consideration of the nominees, citing the commission’s mandate to foster national cohesion and address ethnic discrimination and hate speech.
The NCIC is established under the National Cohesion and Integration Act to promote equality, peaceful coexistence, and inclusivity among Kenya’s diverse communities.
Its members are appointed through a competitive recruitment process and must be vetted by Parliament before formal appointment.
Once approved, the new team will take over at a time when the commission faces renewed pressure to address rising political tensions and inflammatory rhetoric in public discourse, particularly ahead of anticipated political realignments.
Parliamentary committees are expected to schedule vetting hearings before tabling a report for debate and approval by the House.
