National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) chairperson Dr Samuel Kobia/FILEThe National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) is currently investigating 26 cases involving potential violations of the National Cohesion and Integration Act.
In a statement, NCIC Chairperson Dr. Samuel Kobia said the commission has already referred two of the cases to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for further legal action.
“As a country, we must remember that peace and cohesion are not abstract ideals—they are shared responsibilities,” said Kobia.
Kobia made the remarks as the country prepares to commemorate the first anniversary of the Gen Z protests on June 25, 2024.
He urged Kenyans to honour the day with peace, tolerance, and constructive dialogue, particularly in light of ongoing socio-economic challenges.
“Kenya, like many nations around the world, is grappling with complex economic and social pressures. It is only through open, respectful dialogue and non-violent action that we can work toward sustainable solutions without jeopardising our social harmony or economic progress,” he noted.
The NCIC Act prohibits discrimination based on ethnicity and establishes a framework to promote peaceful coexistence, national reconciliation, and the fostering of a unified Kenyan identity.
The Act also empowers the Commission to monitor, investigate, and take action against hate speech, incitement, and other forms of divisive conduct.
To engage citizens, especially the youth, NCIC is leveraging its initiative "Transgenerational Conversation: A Quest for Political Decency and Better Governance," which aims to amplify young voices in governance debates while promoting mutual respect and national values.
“The commission stands ready to support and facilitate inclusive engagement. We are committed to ensuring every Kenyan is heard, respected, and valued in the national discourse,” Kobia added.
He reiterated that the commission remains vigilant in monitoring public discourse and is actively enforcing relevant laws to ensure peace and cohesion across communities.
Established under the National Cohesion and Integration Act No. 12 of 2008, the NCIC was formed in the wake of Kenya’s post-election violence to provide an institutional mechanism for peacebuilding and to curb ethnically driven political competition and violence.
