The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has issued a notice of cessation to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over remarks he made on February 23, 2025, at AIFCA Antubetwe Kiongo Church in Igembe North, Meru County.
The commission, led by Chairperson Samuel Kobia, expressed concern that Gachagua’s statements could incite division among the Ameru community and escalate ethnic tensions in the country.
NCIC specifically condemned Gachagua’s claims that President William Ruto was planning to remove Chief Justice Martha Koome because of her ethnic background.
The commission dismissed these allegations as misleading and irresponsible, warning that such statements could fuel negative ethnicity and disrupt peaceful coexistence.
According to NCIC, remarks that touch on ethnicity in matters of national governance should be handled with caution, as they have the potential to create unnecessary conflicts.
Additionally, the commission faulted Gachagua for warning that President Ruto should not visit Meru if Koome is removed from office. NCIC stated that such remarks were unconstitutional, as they attempted to limit the President’s right to access any part of the country.
The commission reminded leaders that Kenya is a democratic nation where every citizen, including the Head of State, has the freedom to travel and engage with all communities without restrictions.
NCIC further warned that public figures should be responsible when making statements that could affect national unit
The commission emphasized that inflammatory remarks, especially from political leaders, have the potential to create divisions among communities and undermine efforts to promote peace and cohesion.
It urged leaders to use their platforms to bring Kenyans together instead of making statements that could drive them apart.Gachagua has been known for making controversial remarks, often positioning himself as a defender of his political base. However, NCIC noted that such an approach could lead to unnecessary conflicts if not handled carefully.
The commission reminded all political leaders that Kenya has faced challenges related to ethnic divisions in the past and that there is a need to learn from history to avoid repeating mistakes that could harm the nation.
As part of its mandate, NCIC stated that it would continue monitoring public statements made by political leaders and taking necessary action against those who attempt to incite Kenyans against each other.
The commission also called on the public to reject divisive politics and instead focus on unity and development.With political tensions rising in the country, NCIC has urged all leaders to act responsibly and avoid making statements that could fuel animosity.
The commission stressed that every Kenyan, regardless of their ethnic background, should be treated with fairness and respect in all matters of governance.
