The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has raised concerns regarding increasing political intolerance, hate speech, and ethnic provocation.
The commission emphasized that this language presents a serious risk to Kenya’s peace and democratic foundations.
During a press statement released on Monday, NCIC Chairperson Bishop Dr. Kepha Nyamweya Omae noted that the commission operates during a pivotal period characterized by ‘increasing political intolerance, hate speech, ethnic contempt, and violent expressions that have alarmingly become common in Kenya’s public conversation.’
The document pointed to recent disruptions of political gatherings, provocative statements by political figures, and organized digital campaigns targeting individuals due to their political views and ethnic background.
‘No political position, regardless of how strongly held, can justify the dehumanization of fellow citizens. No electoral objective justifies the exacerbation of ethnic divisions,’ the commission stated.
The NCIC denounced the misuse of online platforms to distribute divisive material and organize harassment efforts, noting that digital hate speech carries identical legal ramifications as spoken remarks.
‘Individuals who think that screen anonymity or rapid sharing absolves them from responsibility are misinformed,’ the commission cautioned.
Reaffirming that ‘no individual stands above the law,’ the NCIC committed to pursuing legal action when evidence of hate speech or incitement emerges, irrespective of political standing or connections.
Political organizations were encouraged to maintain internal discipline and guarantee their members comply with constitutional principles.
‘Remaining silent in the presence of intolerance constitutes tacit approval,’ the commission observed.
The declaration also addressed Kenya’s youth, imploring them to reject manipulation by political figures.
‘Kenya’s future rests with our youth. That future is optimally preserved through peaceful, constructive, and lawful participation. Not through violence, intimidation, or the advancement of political objectives that benefit others while compromising national harmony,’ the commission stated.
Appealing for national unity, the NCIC underscored that Kenya’s diversity represents an asset rather than a vulnerability.
‘Unity does not demand conformity. It demands mutual respect, common values, and a unified dedication to the concept of Kenya as paramount,’ Bishop Omae declared.