NCIC condemns political violence in Homa Bay

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has condemned political violence and intolerance reported in Homa Bay, warning political leaders and their supporters against actions that could undermine peace and democratic participation ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In a statement issued on August 16, 2026, the commission described the incidents witnessed in Homa Bay as “unfortunate and worrying,” saying they were contrary to the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and the National Cohesion and Integration Act.

NCIC said every Kenyan has the right to participate in political activities across the country as long as such activities are conducted within the law.

On Sunday, Linda Mwananchi held political rallies in Homa Bay that witnessed goons interfere. Roads were blocked to prevent Narobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s lead movement from holding the rallies. Properties were also destroyed, including the alleged hotel the leaders spent the night in.

“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,” NCIC said.

The commission’s statement comes amid heightened political activity across the country as various political groups and leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.

NCIC reminded Kenyans that Article 37 of the Constitution guarantees every person the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions peacefully and while unarmed.

However, the commission stressed that the exercise of these rights must be accompanied by responsibility and respect for the law.

It said political activities should not be used to promote violence, hate speech, incitement or disorder.

“The Commission calls upon political leaders, their supporters, and all stakeholders to exercise restraint, reject divisive rhetoric, and uphold the values of tolerance, dialogue, and mutual respect,” the commission said.

NCIC warned that political competition must not be allowed to turn into hostility, violence or ethnic antagonism, saying differences in political opinion should strengthen rather than weaken Kenya’s democratic fabric.

The commission said the rise in political intolerance and negative political rhetoric in the country must come to an end.

NCIC particularly condemned acts of violence, disruption and incitement that it said endanger the lives of Kenyans, undermine peaceful democratic participation and threaten national cohesion.

It also warned against excessive use of force, saying peaceful democratic engagement depends on the protection of constitutional rights and adherence to the rule of law.

According to the commission, any actions intended to intimidate, silence or harm citizens have the potential to undermine national unity and social stability.

The commission called on political leaders, their supporters and other stakeholders to exercise restraint as political activities intensify across the country.

It urged political actors to embrace dialogue and mutual respect while ensuring that their supporters do not engage in violence or other unlawful activities.

NCIC also called on political supporters and young people to avoid being used to perpetrate political violence.

The commission said Kenyans should be allowed to exercise their constitutional freedoms without fear, provided they remain within the law.