The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has condemned political intolerance and acts of violence witnessed during a political rally in Homa Bay County.
NCIC Chairman Bishop Dr. Kepha Omae described the incidents as worrying, saying they contravene the Constitution and provisions of the National Cohesion and Integration Act.
Omae said the Commission was concerned that political unrest and lawlessness could undermine constitutional freedoms and threaten peace and security.
He noted that Kenyans have a right to hold political activities in any part of the country provided they comply with the law, noting that the right to peaceful assembly must not be used to incite violence, promote hate speech or cause disorder.
“The Commission condemns the acts of political unrest and lawlessness being witnessed in parts of the country and has embarked on the process of summoning and holding the responsible political actors to account,” Omae said.
He urged political leaders and their supporters to exercise restraint, reject divisive rhetoric and uphold tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
Omae also cautioned political supporters and youth against being used to perpetrate violence, saying political competition should not be equated with hostility, violence or ethnic antagonism.
“While Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya guarantees every person the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions peacefully and unarmed, it is also our responsibility to maintain peace and security in our country at all levels,” he stated.
NCIC said it will continue to condemn acts of violence, incitement, disruption and excessive use of force that threaten lives, destroy property and undermine peaceful democratic participation.
The Commission called on all stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and ensure political differences do not undermine national cohesion and social stability.
