There have been different cases of hate speech in the country.
This is not the first time because it dates to post-colonial rule.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission on Friday last week released a list of phrases that it says amount to hate speech.
According to NCIC hate speech is too broad from an ethnic hatred perspective and encompasses threatening, using abusive words or insulting words or behaviours in form of written material, public performances or through visual images and programmes.
This means hate speech does not take place during political rallies only but political campaigns have been cited as the most events where hate speech is being spread.
Hate speech is the precursor to violence.
Hate speech and ethnic discord were linked to violence during the 2007/08 post-election violence.
We wouldn't want a repeat of that
It's high time the government takes action against people and politicians spreading hate speech.
Hate speech poses a grave danger to the cohesion of a democratic country, the protection of human rights and the rule of law.
If left undressed, it can lead to violence and conflict.
Since NCIC has listed some of the top phrases that are used to spread hate speech, it is high time this rule is taken seriously not only by politicians but also by citizens.
The words are banned in public rallies, social media posts and political talk shows.
Anyone found going against this should be judged to act as an example to others.
We don't want to go back to violence.
Therefore we must all lead in the fight against hate speech.
It is an extreme form of intolerance that contributes to hate.
Sustainable Development Goals cannot be achieved by 2030 if this does not stop.
Communication and media students at Rongo University
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
