Kenya's NCIC Summons Top Politician for Hate Speech

Kenya's NCIC Summons Former Deputy President for Hate Speech NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) in Kenya has summoned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for remarks deemed to incite violence. The NCIC chair, Samuel Kobia, stated that Gachagua's comments, which likened the 2007 post-election violence to a "Christmas party," are deeply insensitive and pose a serious threat to national unity. "These thoughts are not only appalling but dangerously insensitive to the pain and trauma suffered by thousands of Kenyans," Kobia said during a press conference. The NCIC is collaborating with other agencies to ensure accountability for such reckless utterances. The video shows clips from news broadcasts and the NCIC press conference. The commission also revealed that 27 other leaders are under investigation for violating the National Cohesion and Integration Act, which includes hate speech and ethnic contempt. The NCIC is urging Kenyans to reject ethnic polarization and promote national healing. The NCIC's action underscores the seriousness of hate speech in Kenya's charged political climate, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.