Omae takes over NCIC with tough warning against divisive politics
Speaking during his swearing-in ceremony attended by Chief Justice Martha Koome today morning, May 20, 2026, Omae warned that the country was entering a politically sensitive period marked by rising tensions, ethnic divisions and inflammatory political discourse.
Newly sworn-in National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) chairperson Bishop Dr Kepha Nyamweya Omae has called on political leaders and Kenyans to reject divisive rhetoric and safeguard national unity ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during his swearing-in ceremony attended by Chief Justice Martha Koome today morning, May 20, 2026, Omae warned that the country was entering a politically sensitive period marked by rising tensions, ethnic divisions and inflammatory political discourse.
“As we approach the 2027 general elections, I call upon political leaders and all citizens to exercise restraint, uphold the rule of law and reject utterances that divide our people. Freedom of expression must never become a weapon against our unity,” Omae said.
The NCIC is mandated to promote national cohesion, peaceful coexistence and integration by addressing ethnic discrimination, hate speech and conflict across the country.
The new NCIC chairperson succeeds Rev Dr Samuel Kobia, whose five-year term came to an end after serving since 2019.
Omae said his appointment comes at a critical moment when Kenya continues to grapple with deep-rooted ethnic, political and social divisions that threaten national cohesion if left unchecked.
“We assume office at a sensitive moment in our national life. Recent events are a reminder that national cohesion cannot wait for an election year,” he said.
He warned against political violence and reckless public statements, saying early signs of conflict must be addressed before they escalate.
“When a citizen is attacked because of political association, when politicians are attacked by organised groups, when public speech becomes reckless, and when local conflicts over land and water are allowed to escalate, these are not isolated matters but early warning signs that must be confronted early,” he stated.
Omae further cautioned politicians against pursuing power at the expense of peace and national stability.
“No election, no office, no ambition is worth the blood of a Kenyan,” he declared.
The NCIC boss pledged to lead the commission with integrity, impartiality and proactive engagement in promoting peace and cohesion across the country.
“I commit to serve with integrity, courage and fidelity to the values that bind us together as a nation — peace, justice and unity,” he said.
He added that the commission would intensify efforts to foster peaceful coexistence at the national, county and grassroots levels through partnerships and dialogue.
“We will do our best to unite the country at the national, county and grassroots level. The work before us is not ordinary, it is sacred. It is about healing Kenya. We shall not waver,” Omae stated.
At the same time, he appealed to Parliament to fast-track the enactment of the proposed NCIC Act 2026 to strengthen the commission’s mandate and align it with the Constitution.
Omae also commended the Judiciary for establishing special courts to handle hate speech-related cases, saying stronger collaboration among institutions would be critical in preserving peace ahead of the next polls.
The new commission team includes Josphine Kirion Eragae, Joseph Nguyo, Jackson Swadi Kedogo, Samuel Mwachiro Mwawasi, Irene Chepoisho Tulel, Hassan Billow Ahmed and Jerusah Mwaathime Michael.
