NCIC Summons Rigathi Gachagua and Governor Paul Otuoma Over Alleged Hate Speech
NCIC has summoned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Busia Governor Paul Otuoma over alleged hate speech made at different public events this year.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 18, 2026
2 min read
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has formally summoned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Busia Governor Paul Otuoma in connection with alleged hate speech and inciteful remarks made during various public engagements in 2026.
Details of the Summons
- Rigathi Gachagua is required to appear before NCIC on August 27 at 2:00 pm at Britam Towers, Upper Hill. The summons relates to statements he made on February 23 in Kisii County, June 12 in Vihiga County, and July 25 and 26 in Meru County, all delivered in Kiswahili.
- Governor Paul Otuoma has been summoned to appear on August 21 at 10:00 am at the same venue. The summons concerns remarks he made on June 27 in Busia County.
NCIC’s Mandate and Investigation
Established under the National Cohesion and Integration Act, NCIC’s role is to promote national unity by preventing negative ethnicity, racism, religious intolerance, and hate speech. The commission is investigating the public statements of both leaders for possible violations of this mandate.
The summons to Gachagua does not mention arrest in case of non-compliance, whereas Otuoma’s summons warns that failure to appear could result in arrest warrants or criminal proceedings.
Context and Related Actions
This move follows similar summons issued to other politicians, including Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, who has contested the commission’s translation of his remarks and requested a postponement due to official duties.
The NCIC continues its efforts to address political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections by investigating statements that could incite division or violence.
