In Summary:
- Gachagwa on the spotlight of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over the recent remark in which he allegedly likened the 2007/2008 post-election violence to a “Christmas party”.
- Commission described the remarks as “appalling” and “dangerously insensitive,”
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagwa is on the spotlight of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over the recent remark in which he allegedly likened the 2007/2008 post-election violence to a “Christmas party”.
In a press briefing held Wednesday morning, the Commission described the remarks as “appalling” and “dangerously insensitive,” warning that such rhetoric undermines national healing and reconciliation efforts.
“There is nothing festive about the deaths, displacement, and devastation that marked that period,” the NCIC said. “To trivialize such a profound national tragedy is to dishonour the memory of the victims and the resilience of the survivors.”
The Commission further revealed that it is working in collaboration with other government agencies to hold Mr. Gachagua accountable for what it termed as “reckless utterances.”
The NCIC also issued a stern warning to other political leaders, reminding them that words have the power to either heal or destroy, and called for greater responsibility in both public and private statements.
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Political Leaders Urged to Promote Unity
As Kenya gears up for the 2027 General Elections, the NCIC expressed concern over a resurgence of ethnically based political mobilization, terming it a dangerous regression from the more issue-focused campaigns witnessed during the 2022 polls.
“The creation, endorsement, or normalization of ethnically based political parties is not only a flagrant violation of our Constitution—it is a direct assault on the cohesion and unity of the Republic of Kenya,” the Commission warned.
The NCIC announced that it is actively monitoring political narratives and alliances emerging across the country. It pledged to take action against political actors found to be fueling ethnic divisions, noting that the country has previously paid a heavy price for such polarization.
Call to Action for a United Kenya
The Commission urged all political players to embrace inclusivity and national cohesion, emphasizing that the future of Kenya’s democracy lies in issue-based engagement rather than tribal arithmetic.
“Kenya needs leaders who unify, not divide; who speak with empathy and respect, not with carelessness and contempt,” the NCIC stated. “Together, let us build a Kenya where politics is about policy—not tribe; ideology—not negative ethnicity.”
The NCIC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national unity through policy guidance, community engagement, mediation, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
