NCIC seeks fresh power to clear candidates before elections

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) in Kenya is seeking increased authority to vet candidates before national elections in 2027, as part of a collaborative roadmap aimed at maintaining a violence-free electoral process. During an interview on August 17, 2026, NCIC Chairman Bishop Kepha Nyamweya revealed that discussions are underway to have all political parties sign a peace charter before the 2027 General Election.

According to Nyamweya, the proposed charter and a multi-agency approach would involve the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties and Kenya's Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in ensuring candidates meet stringent criteria before being cleared to stand for election. The chairman emphasized the importance of a coordinated effort among various stakeholders to prevent ethnic polarisation, hate speech, and violence during the election period.

He expressed deep concern over the rising trend of ethnic polarization and incitement, which he asserted must be curtailed. Nyamweya's comments follow several violent incidents at political gatherings, including a recent rally in Homa Bay where MP Peter Kaluma was summoned over inflammatory remarks. The NCIC has been collaborating with the IEBC, the police, and other state agencies to prepare for the 2027 elections.

The peace charter is anticipated to be a cornerstone in promoting a peaceful electoral environment and combating hate speech, ethnic mobilization, and violence, as political parties ramp up their campaigns ahead of the polls.