The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has widened its crackdown on alleged hate speech and incitement by opening investigations into former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku and several other senior political leaders.
The move comes as political temperatures continue to rise ahead of the 2027 General Election, with the commission warning that inflammatory ethnic rhetoric will not be tolerated regardless of a leader's political affiliation.
NCIC Opens Probe Into Gachagua and Senior Leaders as Political Temperatures Rise ¶
In a joint statement issued with the Interreligious Council of Kenya on Tuesday, the commission confirmed that multiple politicians are under investigation over alleged hate speech and incitement.
Those named include former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Health CS Aden Duale, Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku, Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, Mandera Deputy Governor Ali Maalim Mohamud, Sirisia MP John Waluke, Wanjiku Muhia and MP David Gikaria.
NCIC Chairperson Reverend Dr. Kepha Nyamweya said all investigations are being conducted within the law and emphasized that every individual under investigation remains innocent until proven guilty.
He added that the commission would follow due process as it examines the allegations against the leaders.
Duale's Remarks Trigger Fresh Political Storm ¶
Health CS Aden Duale has emerged at the center of the latest controversy following remarks made during a community empowerment event in Lafey Constituency, Mandera County.
The comments, captured in a viral video, have drawn sharp criticism from political leaders and civil society groups, with critics accusing the CS of making statements that could fuel ethnic division.
During the address, Duale praised President William Ruto's administration for what he described as restoring the dignity of the Somali community before making remarks that are now under investigation by NCIC.
He has maintained that his comments have been taken out of context.
Probe Comes as Kenya Enters High-Stakes Political Season ¶
The investigations come at a time when political activity is intensifying ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The commission has repeatedly warned leaders against using inflammatory language capable of inciting communities or undermining national cohesion during political campaigns.
By widening the investigations to include both government and opposition figures, NCIC is seeking to demonstrate that the law applies equally to all political leaders regardless of office or affiliation.
The outcome of the investigations could shape political discourse in the months ahead as scrutiny over public statements by senior leaders continues to intensify.
