Defiant Gachagua Snubs NCIC Summons as Hate Speech Storm Escalates
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has revealed that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua failed to appear for questioning after being summoned over hate speech claims.
Gachagua Among Six Summoned
Documents presented to the National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security show that Gachagua was one of six individuals summoned since January 2025. Others included:
- Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama
- Activist Calvince Okoth (Gaucho)
- Starehe MP Amos Mwago (accused of ethnic discrimination)
- Jerotich Kipkoris (Marakwet Daughter)
- Sanjeev Kumar
Only Mwago and Kumar honored the summons, while Gachagua, Wanyama, and Kipkoris ignored them.
NCIC Investigating Over 50 Hate Speech Cases
The commission is currently handling 53 cases related to hate speech and ethnic contempt. Among those under investigation are:
- Gachagua
- MP Dan Wanyama
- MP Bernard Kitur (Nandi Hills)
- Kipkateny Ward MCA Joan Kirong
NCIC has been closely monitoring political leaders amid rising concerns about incitement and ethnic divisions.
NCIC Faces Budget Challenges
NCIC is seeking an additional Sh600 million to fight hate speech, especially on social media. Officials said that although the commission received Sh567 million for the current financial year, most of it goes to salaries and rent, leaving little for investigations and awareness campaigns.
NCIC CEO Humphrey Kariuki stated that the commission lacks funds for active investigations and digital monitoring.
NCIC to Improve Social Media Monitoring
Commissioner Danvas Makori said NCIC is developing new software to track online hate speech. He dismissed claims that NCIC is ineffective, arguing that lack of funds has limited its work.
Meanwhile, lawmakers urged NCIC to be more vocal and take strong action against divisive remarks. Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma called for an ethnic audit of government jobs to ensure fairness before the 2027 elections.
What’s Next?
NCIC is waiting for a budget review to boost its investigations, curb online hate speech, and promote national unity before the 2027 elections.
Defiant Gachagua Snubs NCIC Summons as Hate Speech Storm Escalates
