Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has failed to respond to a summons issued by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over alleged hate speech and ethnic contempt. Gachagua was among six individuals summoned since January 2025, but he, along with Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama and activist Jerotich Kipkoris, alias Marakwet Daughter, reportedly ignored the summons.
Documents presented to the National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security indicate that only Starehe MP Amos Mwago, who faced accusations of ethnic discrimination, and Sanjeev Kumar appeared before the commission. Activist Calvince Okoth, also known as Gaucho, had also been summoned in connection with similar allegations.
NCIC officials have expressed concerns over inadequate funding, emphasizing that the lack of resources hinders their ability to monitor and curb hate speech, especially on social media. The commission requested an additional KSh 600 million, highlighting that most of their current allocation is spent on salaries and rent, leaving little for enforcement activities.
Commissioner Abdulaziz Ali Farah underscored the urgency of addressing hate speech, particularly as the country is already in an electioneering period. He called for a collaborative approach to mitigate rising cases of inciteful remarks. Another commissioner, Danvas Makori, revealed that the commission is working on developing open-source software to track online hate speech, countering claims of ineffectiveness and reinforcing the importance of proactive measures.
In recent weeks, Gachagua had been censured for allegedly making inflammatory statements, including threats to lead protests if Chief Justice Martha Koome is removed from office. His defiance of the NCIC summons has drawn attention, particularly given the increasing political tensions in the country.
In a separate development, Gachagua issued a warning to allies of President William Ruto, urging them to be mindful of their public statements. He cautioned that reckless remarks could have serious repercussions, including potential legal action at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. Stressing the need for responsible leadership, he highlighted the dangers of inflammatory rhetoric, which could destabilize the country and draw international scrutiny.
Gachagua’s concerns were seen as a response to recent controversial statements made by some leaders within the ruling coalition, which have sparked public outcry and heightened political tensions. He emphasized the importance of uniting the nation and addressing pressing challenges such as economic recovery and development rather than engaging in divisive politics.
He reiterated that leaders must be cautious with their words and actions, as they carry far-reaching consequences for national stability and the country’s global reputation. His remarks were interpreted as a call for restraint, urging politicians to exercise discipline and responsibility in their engagements.
