NCIC wants over 10 MPs to be arrested for hate speech

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has written to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) seeking the arrest of over ten politicians including Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi for hate speech.

The commission noted that it had completed investigations into utterances by the legislators and had enough evidence to have them arraigned in court.

This came as the commission expressed its concern over the resurgence of outlawed and criminal gangs warning that this could turn the country into a criminalised State.

In the last couple of weeks, a group of legislators in the presence of President Ruto issued inciting remarks about particular regions in the country, sparking fear and anxiety.

According to Commissioner Wambui Nyutu, cases of hate speech from a group of politicians were on the rise creating unnecessary tension in the country.

She said that the commission had done its part and handed over files to the DCI and was awaiting arrest and arraignment in court.

“We have recommended the arrests of over 10 MPs including Oscar Sudi, Dan Wanyama, and Faarah Maalim and if we had the powers to arrest, all would be behind bars by now,” she said.

Addressing the press in Naivasha, Wambui said that the commission was concerned over rising cases of abductions targeting youths. “We condemn the forced disappearance of our youths and the way forward is by arresting anyone who has broken the law and charging them in court,” she said.

On his part, the Chair of the Commission Reverend Samuel Kobia expressed concerns over the resurgence of organized gangs in the country.

“The resurgence of these gangs poses a serious threat to public safety, hindering efforts to achieve peace, security, and socio-economic progress in affected regions,” he said.

He noted that Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Kiambu counties were the most affected adding that the gang’s operations were becoming sophisticated by the day.

“We have observed a troubling decline in social and moral values, evidenced by the increasing incidences of abuse and brutal murders, particularly of young people and women,” he said.