MPs push for tougher NCIC powers to "bite harder" on hate speech
National
By
Josphat Thiong'o
| May 01, 2026
Bishop Kepha Nyamweya Omae, nominee for NCIC Chairperson during vetting by the National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities at Mini Chambers, County Hall in Nairobi, on April 25, 2026. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]
Lawmakers are now calling for the bestowing of prosecutorial powers on the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) ahead of the 2027 General Election to curb political indiscipline.
The Commission on Wednesday got new members after the National Assembly approved an eight-member team chaired by Bishop Kepha Nyamweya Omae, which is expected to be sworn in at a time when political temperatures have already flared up.
Bishop Nyamweya, an evangelical cleric close to President William Ruto, is the Presiding Bishop of Redeemed Gospel Church and senior pastor of RGC Liberty Christian Centre, Nairobi. He was formerly the Chairman of the Kenya Council of Church Alliances and Ministries (KCCAM), a coalition of Evangelical, Pentecostal and Charismatic churches.
However, even as the new team assumes office, questions remain over whether the commissioners will outperform their predecessors and ensure political hygiene during this high-stakes election period. This follows repeated accusations that the outgoing commission, led by Rev Samuel Kobia, was “toothless” and overly influenced by the Executive.
During debate on a special motion approving the new commissioners, MPs expressed concern over rising political tensions, arguing that empowering the NCIC with prosecutorial powers is the only way to de-escalate hostility and avert potential violence.
Saku MP Raso Dido led calls for the commission to be granted prosecutorial authority.
“This commission does not have the constitutional powers enjoyed by other bodies. It is time this House moved with speed and ensure it is empowered to take individuals to court. It should also address issues, such as marginalisation and social exclusion if Kenya is to remain a unified state,” said Dido.
Nominated MP Irene Mayaka stressed the need for the commission to help de-escalate political tensions and ensure equitable resource distribution.
“We are heading into an election period where tensions are heightened. We urge the commission to take responsibility in addressing discrimination, conflict resolution and hate speech,” she said.
Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah urged political leaders to exercise restraint in their utterances.
“This is one of the most critical commissions ahead of the General Election because we risk losing this country every cycle due to divisive political statements. Leaders must be responsible for what they say,” he noted.
Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri called for adequate funding for the commission, describing the new team as experienced and capable.
“This committee is coming at a critical time. Their credibility will be under scrutiny. They must be fair and serve all Kenyans equally,” he said.
The debate has revived concerns over the NCIC’s past performance, particularly its handling of hate speech and political incitement cases. President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have previously engaged in public verbal exchanges that drew criticism, with little visible action from the commission.
The commission has, however, previously issued warnings to Gachagua over alleged ethnic incitement.
Concerns over the NCIC’s effectiveness were further raised in Parliament earlier this year, with MPs accusing it of failing to curb political gangs and hate speech.
Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge questioned its effectiveness, asking: “Is the commission toothless? Why has no action been taken on the former Deputy President?”
Nominated MP Joseph Iraya warned that failure to act decisively could reverse gains made in national cohesion, while Mandera West MP Adan Haji raised concerns about the effectiveness of county peace committees.