Church Leaders Tell NCIC To Act As Hate Speech Heats Up

By Robai Ludenyi

Religious leaders and human rights defenders in Naivasha have asked the National Cohesion and Integration Commission to stop sleeping on the job and take firm action against politicians spreading hate speech. The leaders said they are worried by the growing trend of careless and divisive statements coming from some political leaders, warning that this could easily push the country down a dangerous path.

Their anger was mainly directed at Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, whose recent remarks they described as reckless and likely to spark unnecessary tension between communities.

Bishop George Warui from Joy in Christ Ministries reminded Kenyans that such talk once led to the 2007 post-election violence, which left many people dead and others displaced. He said the country cannot afford to go through the same pain again because of leaders who put politics ahead of peace and unity. The bishop said instead of inciting people, governors should focus on fulfilling their promises and helping citizens deal with the challenges they face every day, such as unemployment, poor roads, and the high cost of living.

Human rights activist Edward Maina also expressed his disappointment with the two governors. He welcomed Mutahi Kahiga’s move to step down as the vice chair of the Council of Governors, saying it was a good step that shows responsibility. However, he criticized Gladys Wanga for telling former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to keep off Nyanza, calling it divisive and unnecessary. Maina reminded leaders that Kenya belongs to all its citizens and that no one should be stopped from visiting any part of the country.

Maina further said that the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga should not be used to divide Kenyans who have lived together peacefully for years. He urged politicians to honor Raila’s legacy by promoting unity rather than fueling political hatred.

Former Lakeview MCA Simon Wanango also joined the call, saying that what Kenyans need now is peace and togetherness, not cheap political fights. The leaders called on the NCIC to wake up and act before the situation gets out of hand.

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The author is Robai Ludenyi. Journalist and Media Innovator