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The CEO said the combination of historical decisions, governance gaps, and inconsistent policies has reinforced inequality, leaving a small group with significant control over national resources while many remain economically vulnerable.
NCIC CEO Daniel Mutegi says Kenya is strengthening legal and institutional tools to curb hate speech and political incitement ahead of the 2027 elections. Mutegi outlines a three-phase peace roadmap and notes the NCIC Act Bill is in third reading.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission condemned alleged hate speech by Garissa politician Bare Sahara Ahmed and confirmed his arrest, saying freedom of expression does not extend to incitement or divisive remarks. The case is under legal review.
Dr. Kepha Omae, nominated for the position of chairperson, was the first to face vetting on Saturday. He said his background in church leadership would help strengthen the commission’s visibility and effectiveness.
The commission claims that its officers were subjected to hostile treatment during committee appearances and further alleges that there were demands tied to favourable handling of matters before the committee.
Kenyan MPs, through the Public Investments Committee, have summoned former NCIC commissioners and the ex-CEO to respond to Auditor-General audit queries spanning 2021/22 to 2024/25, including allowance concerns and large travel overspending.
If cleared, the incoming commissioners will take over from the team led by Reverend Samuel Kobia, whose term came to an end on November 17, 2025, after serving for six years since November 2019.
Lawmakers faulted the commission for not acting decisively against politically linked gangs and the rise of hate speech as Kenya enters a tense political season.
Following careful evaluation, the panel shortlisted 13 candidates for the chairperson role and 109 for the members’ positions. Interviews for the chairperson post are set to begin on March 2, with six candidates scheduled to appear on the first day starting at 10 am.
In a ruling delivered by Senior Resident Magistrate Paul Mutai, the court held that evidence presented showed Salasya had met all the requirements under an out-of-court agreement, including issuing a public apology and actively participating in peace initiatives.
The commission said many people wrongly believe that anonymity or physical distance shields them from consequences, a belief that has contributed to rising cyberbullying, threats, harassment and offensive remarks online.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Commission detailed deadly attacks in Marsabit, Samburu, Tana River, Narok, Turkana and parts of North Eastern Kenya, while calling for stronger security responses, sustained dialogue, and regional cooperation.