The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has issued a strong warning to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, cautioning him against making divisive statements that could incite ethnic tensions and disrupt national unity. The commission expressed concern that Gachagua’s ongoing political attacks on President William Ruto could fuel animosity among Kenyans.
NCIC Condemns Gachagua’s Remarks on Chief Justice Koome
The warning follows Gachagua’s recent claims regarding an alleged plot to remove Chief Justice Martha Koome before the 2027 elections, which he linked to her ethnicity. Speaking during a public event in Meru, Gachagua accused President Ruto of engineering the move, a statement the NCIC described as misleading and inflammatory.
NCIC Chairperson Samuel Kobia, in a letter dated February 27, 2025, criticized the remarks, stating they were intended to promote negative ethnicity and incite public hostility. The commission emphasized that such rhetoric undermines peaceful coexistence and could trigger ethnic divisions.
Concerns Over Ethnic Incitement in Meru Speech
The NCIC referenced Gachagua’s February 23, 2025, speech at AIPCA Anutebwe Kiongo Church in Igembe North, Meru County, where he allegedly sought to provoke emotional reactions among members of the Ameru community. His warning that President Ruto should avoid visiting Meru if Koome is removed was deemed unconstitutional and a violation of the president’s right to freely visit any part of Kenya in his official capacity.
NCIC Calls for Responsible Speech and National Unity
While acknowledging that freedom of speech is a constitutional right, the NCIC urged Gachagua to exercise restraint and carefully consider the impact of his words. The commission warned against propaganda for war, incitement to violence, and hate speech, emphasizing that such statements pose a serious threat to Kenya’s ethnic harmony and stability.
To protect national cohesion, the NCIC directed Gachagua to cease making divisive remarks and instead contribute to fostering peace and unity among Kenyans. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring political rhetoric and taking necessary action against individuals promoting hate speech.
