The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has dismissed reports claiming that it has been disbanded, clarifying that it remains fully operational and continues to execute its legal mandate.
In a statement on Thursday, the Commission said its tenure is governed by the National Cohesion and Integration Act No. 12 of 2008, which stipulates that the chairperson and seven commissioners serve a single, non-renewable term of six years.
The current Commission, chaired by Samuel Kobia, assumed office on November 19, 2019, and is expected to complete its term on November 17, 2025.
Kobia said reports suggesting that the Commission has been dissolved are incorrect and misleading.
“We wish to clarify that recent media reports alleging the disbandment of the Commission are incorrect, misleading, and a misrepresentation of the facts. The NCIC remains fully operational and continues to execute its legal mandate,” he said.
He added that preparations are underway for a comprehensive handover report to President William Ruto in line with governance and accountability requirements.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence, promoting equality, and strengthening national unity across Kenya’s diverse communities.
“As we move into the final phase of our tenure, we remain committed to the values and responsibilities entrusted to us,” the statement read.
On Tuesday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen appointed six members to the National Cohesion and Integration Commission selection panel.
In a gazette notice dated November 3, Murkomen declared impending vacancies in the positions of chairperson and seven commissioners, effective November 17, 2025.
According to the notice, the vacancies will arise upon the expiry of the six-year non-renewable terms of the current officeholders.
“Now therefore, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 17 of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission Act as read with the procedure set out under Paragraph 2 of the First Schedule to the Act, hereby declares impending vacancies in the position of chairperson and seven members of the Commission, with effect from November 17, 2025,” Murkomen said in the notice.
He also constituted a selection panel to oversee the recruitment of nominees for appointment as chairperson and members of the NCIC.
The CS appointed Reuben Chirchir, Francis Meja, Pauline Mcharo, Alfred Mshimba, Michael Nzomo Mbithuka, and Hannah Okwengu to the panel.
The NCIC is established under Section 15 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act and comprises a chairperson and seven members.
