NCIC summons Didmus Barasa, John Ariko over public utterances
Two MPs, Didmus Barasa and John Ariko, have been summoned by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over public utterances allegedly made during separate events in Bungoma and Turkana counties.
Nairobi, Kenya – September 23 – Two Members of Parliament, Didmus Barasa and John Ariko Namoit, have been summoned by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) for allegedly making controversial statements during events in Bungoma and Turkana counties, respectively. The summons, issued on September 22, directs the two politicians to appear before the commission on September 29 to address allegations that have sparked ongoing investigations.
Barasa, the Kimilili MP, is scheduled to appear at the NCIC offices at Britam Tower, Upper Hill, Nairobi, at 10 a.m. The commission alleges that Barasa made remarks during a speech in Sirisia Constituency, Bungoma County, on September 19, criticizing leaders from the former Western Province who hold high-ranking positions in government, including Cabinet secretaries, principal secretaries, ambassadors, and chairpersons of State corporations.
The NCIC highlights a specific example of Barasa suggesting that a candidate from Nyeri could be rejected despite presenting well-dressed and fluent in English, while a candidate from the Western region could be favored due to his name and perceived community background. Barasa's comments, according to the commission, concluded by alleging that such practices have contributed to the community falling behind, which the commission has labeled as "rudi nyuma."
Ariko, the Turkana South MP, is set to appear before the commission at 2 p.m. The NCIC asserts that Ariko's statements, also made during an event in Turkana County, have started an investigation. The NCIC emphasizes that Barasa's appearance before the commission is an opportunity for him to respond to the allegations, present evidence, and make representations regarding the matter.
Should Barasa fail to appear, the commission warns that warrants for his arrest may be issued, and legal proceedings, including criminal or contempt charges, could be initiated.
The NCIC, established under the National Cohesion and Integration Act, is tasked with fostering national unity and peaceful relations among communities, addressing negative ethnicity, racism, religious intolerance, and hate speech.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
