PH
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has distanced itself from allegations that they are targeting opposition (CORD) leaders in their crackdown on hate speech.
Chairman Francis Ole Kaparo said the commission is very independent and will deal with all leaders across the political divide without fear or favour.
“Claims that the commission is targeting opposition leaders in its fight on hate mongers are far-fetched and can’t hold any water. We will deal with all leaders without favour,” he said.
Speaking in Bungoma County, Kaparo noted that the favoritism claims won’t deter them from arresting hate mongers.
The Chairman pointed out that they will continue to perform their duties and will not be threatened with malicious claims from certain leaders.
“Our mandate is to ensure a peaceful country. We don’t want to see any leader either from Jubilee or Opposition CORD engaging in hate speech that can plunge this country into fighting. Let’s desist from making reckless statements that can fuel tribalism and hatred among certain communities,” he said.
Kaparo noted that they won’t sit down and watch leaders create animosity through hate speech. He promised that they will crack the whip until every leader preaches peace.
“Is it a must for a leader to use hate speech in their address? You better keep quite and be safe rather than spread hate and land in trouble,” noted Kaparo.
He called on leaders to preach peace among Kenyans instead of using hate speech that cause confusion and breeds hatred.
“As a commission, we are not willing to arraign any leader to court but if need be, we will be forced to take them there. The law should be followed; be simple when addressing the public,” he said.
