The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) in Kenya has summoned two Members of Parliament, Didmus Barasa and John Ariko, over remarks they made in their respective counties. Barasa, the Kimilili MP, and Ariko, the Turkana South MP, are expected to appear before the commission on September 29. The NCIC is investigating the remarks for possible breach of laws on national cohesion. The summonses are part of an ongoing inquiry and do not amount to a finding that either lawmaker committed an offence.
Didmus Barasa has been directed to appear at the NCIC offices in Nairobi at 10am on September 29. His summons relates to remarks he allegedly made in Sirisia Constituency, Bungoma County, on September 19. According to the NCIC, Barasa spoke about leaders from the former Western Province who currently occupy senior government positions. He questioned how such leaders should use their positions to address the interests of people from the region. The commission also noted that Barasa's remarks touched on the treatment of job applicants from different communities during recruitment interviews.
John Ariko's case stems from remarks he allegedly made at Kaputir Location in Kapurir Ward, Turkana South, on September 2. The NCIC said the MP made statements concerning relations between the Turkana and Pokot communities, livestock raids, security, and the sharing of benefits from the Lokichar Oil Basin. Ariko allegedly referred to Pokots in derogatory terms and questioned their presence in Turkana South. He also linked them to livestock raids and discussed their potential access to benefits from the oil basin.
The NCIC has warned both MPs that failure to appear in person could result in warrants of arrest and possible criminal or contempt proceedings. However, the commission has also assured them that they will have an opportunity to respond, provide evidence, and make representations before it reaches a determination. This process is part of the NCIC's mandate to investigate and address issues related to national cohesion and integration.
The summonses issued to Barasa and Ariko are not isolated incidents. The NCIC has previously summoned several leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Cabinet Secretaries Aden Duale and Geoffrey Ruku, MPs John Kaguchia and Joseph Wainaina Iraya, and Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku. These leaders were summoned over remarks that the commission was investigating for possible hate speech or ethnic incitement.
The NCIC plays a crucial role in promoting national cohesion and integration in Kenya. The commission is responsible for investigating and addressing issues related to hate speech, ethnic incitement, and other forms of intolerance. By summoning Barasa and Ariko, the NCIC is demonstrating its commitment to upholding the laws and promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity.
The cases of Barasa and Ariko highlight the importance of responsible leadership and communication in Kenya. As elected representatives, MPs have a significant influence on public discourse and opinion. The NCIC's actions serve as a reminder that leaders must be mindful of their words and actions, and that they will be held accountable for promoting national cohesion and integration.
Key points
- The NCIC has summoned MPs Didmus Barasa and John Ariko over remarks that could breach laws on national cohesion.
- Barasa and Ariko are expected to appear before the commission on September 29 to respond to the allegations.
- The summonses are part of an ongoing inquiry and do not amount to a finding that either lawmaker committed an offence.
