The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has said it will take action against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over comments he made referring to the 2007/2008 post-election violence as a “Christmas party.”
NCIC Chairperson Rev. Samuel Kobia described Gachagua’s remarks as insensitive and deeply hurtful to victims of the violence, which left over 1,000 people dead and thousands displaced.
He said the commission is already working with other government agencies to ensure Gachagua is held accountable for what he termed as “reckless utterances.”
“The words used by the former Deputy President disregard the pain, loss, and trauma that many Kenyans went through during one of the darkest periods in our country’s history,” said Rev. Kobia.
Gachagua made the controversial statement during the Obinna Show Live, which was recorded at his home in Wamunyoro.
He later defended himself, saying he was only warning the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) that failing to conduct fair elections could plunge the country into chaos similar to what happened in 2007/2008.
But NCIC insists that such statements, whether meant as a warning or not, are dangerous and must not be taken lightly. The commission also sent a stern warning to other leaders who have in the past made hateful or inciteful remarks.
“We urge all leaders to act responsibly in their public and private statements. Kenya cannot afford to go back to the politics of division and hatred,” said Rev. Kobia.
He further urged political leaders to focus on issue-based politics that unite the country and serve the interests of all Kenyans, regardless of tribe or region.
The NCIC also cautioned young people against using social media to spread hate and division.
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