Religious leaders and human rights defenders in Naivasha accuse the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) of sleeping on the job as hate speech by politicians intensifies.
The leaders urge the Commission to take firm action against politicians who spread division across the country. They point out recent remarks by Governors Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay) and Mutahi Kahiga (Nyeri), warning that such statements could spark chaos.
Bishop George Warui of Joy in Christ Ministries says the current political tension mirrors what led to the 2007 post-election violence, where many people lost their lives. He challenges the two governors to stop inciting the public and instead focus on development and fulfilling their promises.
“We are deeply disturbed by the reckless remarks by Governors Kahiga and Wanga. NCIC must act now to stop these incitements,” Warui says.
While speaking in Naivasha, the bishop insists that hate speech should never target communities or regions.
Calls for Accountability and Political Restraint
Human rights defender Edward Maina backs the call and supports Governor Kahiga’s resignation as Vice-Chair of the Council of Governors. He also criticizes Governor Wanga’s remarks toward former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, saying they cross the line into incitement.
“We condemn both governors. Every Kenyan has the right to visit any part of the country,” Maina says.
Maina praises the late Raila Odinga for promoting national unity. He urges leaders not to use Odinga’s death to divide communities that have worked together for years.
Former Lakeview MCA Simon Wanango joins the call, warning that divisive remarks could reignite ethnic tensions. He reminds leaders that Naivasha residents suffered deeply during the 2007 violence.
“Naivasha is peaceful today. We won’t allow reckless leaders like Wanga and Kahiga to divide us again,” Wanango says.
The NCIC continues to summon politicians over hate speech, but many still ignore the calls. Critics now challenge the Commission to prove its relevance through firm and visible enforcement of the law.
