NAIROBI — National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has committed to strengthening Kenya’s National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) through legislative reforms and increased financial support. Speaking in Nairobi on Tuesday during a meeting with NCIC Chairperson Samuel Kobia and his team, speaker Wetang’ula said Parliament will prioritize reinforcing independent institutions, including the NCIC and the newly appointed electoral body.
“As Parliament, we will provide the necessary budgetary support and strengthen legal frameworks where required to help you fulfill your mandate,” Speaker Wetang’ula said. “Kenya needs peace, cohesion, and unity now more than ever.”
The Speaker underscored the NCIC’s role in preserving national stability and warned against incitement that could undermine the country’s fragile unity.
Speaker Wetangula urged political leaders to exercise restraint in public discourse, stating, “Any attempt to suggest that certain Kenyans don’t belong in any part of the country is criminal and must be treated as such.”
Speaker Wetang’ula also expressed concern over the rise in public demonstrations, emphasizing that while the Constitution guarantees the right to protest, such activities must not violate the rights of others.
“There is a difference between picketing, peaceful demonstrations, and riots,” Speaker Wetangula said. “We must uphold the Constitution and ensure demonstrations are lawful and do not harm others.”
Dr. Kobia welcomed the Speaker’s remarks and requested Parliament to fast-track the NCIC Amendment Bill of 2014. The bill aims to enhance the NCIC Act of 2008, giving the commission more tools to address ethnic discrimination, hate speech, and divisive politics.
The Speaker also called on Kenyans to support the newly constituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) as it prepares for the 2027 General Election.
“The IEBC must be allowed to work without premature suspicion,” Speaker Wetabgula said. “Let’s give them space to deliver credible elections.”
Speaker Wetangula urged the NCIC to remain impartial in addressing national tensions and to act in the best interest of peace and inclusivity.
Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s remarks come amid ongoing national debates around public protests, ethnic cohesion, and electoral preparedness, with calls growing louder for stronger institutions to stabilize the country ahead of the next election cycle.
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