Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

- The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has called for the arrest and prosecution of former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua.

This is after he failed to honour a summons over hate speech allegations linked to post-election violence.

NCIC chairperson Samuel Kobia confirmed the commission has officially forwarded Gachagua’s name to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for further action.

Addressing the press in Nairobi, Kobia disclosed that Gachagua is one of 26 high-profile leaders currently under investigation for hate speech and incitement.

Other politicians in the spotlight include William Kamket and Lang’ata MP Felix Oduor, popularly known as Jalang’o.

"When we summon people and they do not honour our summons, it is then that we are then authorised to forward that case to the DPP," Kobia explained.

He underscored the commission’s resolve to hold public figures accountable regardless of rank or popularity.

The renewed push for accountability comes just days before a highly anticipated Gen Z-led protest set for Wednesday, June 25.

Kobia issued a passionate appeal to all Kenyans, especially the youth, to demonstrate peacefully and avoid being manipulated by political actors.

"We are warning any Kenyans who might mobilise goons to come and interfere with what the Gen Z have said are going to be a peaceful commemoration of what happened on June 25th last year," Kobia said.

The NCIC chair also urged political leaders to rise above divisive rhetoric and instead promote peace.

Kobia emphasised that the nation’s democratic space should not be taken for granted, especially by those who wield influence over young people.

As part of its ongoing outreach, NCIC hosted Mumias East MP Peter Salasya for a meeting on youth engagement and peacebuilding.

Salasya expressed his willingness to work closely with the commission to foster unity and prevent the recurrence of political violence.

"We have agreed with NCIC on how we are going also, me as Peter Salasya, to be part and parcel in preaching peace and uniting this country," the youthful MP said.

The commission didn’t spare the National Police Service, issuing a stern warning to security forces, urging them to respect human dignity in the execution of their duties.

As earlier reported, Gachagua ignored the summon from the NCIC over comments warning of potential violence if the 2027 elections are rigged.

Through his lawyer Kibe Mungai, he accused the commission of bias and selective enforcement, noting silence over provocative statements by President William Ruto’s allies.

Gachagua insisted his warning was a constitutional expression under Article 33, not incitement.

He challenged the NCIC to act on remarks by figures like William Kamket, Oscar Sudi and Samson Cherargei before demanding his attendance.

Source: TUKO.co.ke