NAIROBI,Kenya-Politicians who engage in hate speech and incitement ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Election risk being barred from the ballot, following a warning by four state agencies that have pledged to crack down on divisive political rhetoric.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties have formed a high-level multi-agency committee to investigate and prosecute leaders accused of incitement and hate speech.
NCIC Chairperson Bishop Kepha Nyamweya Omae said politicians found violating the law could face prosecution and, where applicable, disqualification from contesting elective positions.
“This is a warning against leaders engaging in divisive and inciting conduct. If left unchecked, this trend will set the nation on a dangerous trajectory,” Omae said.
He added that the commission would work with the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties and other relevant institutions to ensure legal action is taken against offenders.
Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) Steering Committee Chairperson Evans Misati said more than 15 individuals could be locked out of the 2027 election for failing to meet the required legal and ethical standards.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon said the electoral commission would soon gazette the election period, stressing that a credible election cannot be conducted in an environment dominated by hate and political intimidation.
He also urged Kenyans to reject leaders who thrive on divisive politics and reminded voters that elections are conducted through a secret ballot.
DCI Director Mohamed Amin warned politicians against making reckless statements at political rallies and on social media, saying security agencies are prepared to take firm action against anyone found violating the law.
Meanwhile, Registrar of Political Parties John Cox Lorionokou reminded political parties of their responsibility to ensure members comply with the Political Parties Code of Conduct, warning that breaches would attract legal consequences.
The agencies said the joint initiative is aimed at safeguarding national unity and ensuring the 2027 General Election is conducted in a peaceful, lawful and credible environment.
