NCIC flags hustler and dynasty talk as threat to peaceful elections
The raging Hustler versus Dynasty debate being advanced by a cross section of politicians was yesterday flagged as a threat to peaceful and fair elections.
National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) commissioner Phillip Okundi, said the move was creating unease in the country and was likely to brew tension, as the country gears towards the 2022 general elections.
NCIC, he said, has taken interest in the debate and will soon hold a meeting with the concerned politicians to ensure that the country does not degenerate into chaos.
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“The country has witnessed relative calm since the Handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga and we cannot afford to reduce the gains made,” he said.
Dire consequence
Speaking in Kisumu during a sensitisation forum for journalists and bloggers towards countering electoral violence and political intolerance, Okundi urged members of the public not to fall prey to the narrative and start tearing each other but to remain peaceful during the electioneering period.
“I want to urge all Kenyans not to let this narrative take effect, because it will disintegrate this country,” he said.
He added that NCIC has launched a roadmap to peaceful 2022 elections where they are engaging all stakeholders to ensure that the exercise runs smoothly.
NCIC commissioner Dorcas Kedogo called for tolerance to keep the country united. She urged leaders to tone down on divisive politics.
The commission, she said, was working closely with grassroots partners to monitor hate speech, adding that plans were underway to open regional offices to enhance NCIC presence.
Two offices, she said have already been opened in Marsabit and Marigat, adding that the plan will continue to cover the whole country.
Gitonga Mwikamba, NCIC senior legal officer said the commission has put in place measures to monitor hate speech in public meetings and social media and those involved in the crime will face the law.
“We have set up cyber and media monitoring units, at the same time, we have revamped our investigation teams to ensure that all cases are prosecuted and remedial measures taken,” he said.
He said the commission, will soon start naming and shaming politicians engaging in hate speech to ensure that the practice is eradicated. —KNA
