Eldoret Activist Backs Government Crackdown on Ethnic Incitement, Warns of Rising Political Tensions

An Eldoret-based human rights activist, Kipkorir Ngetich, has issued a strongly worded statement supporting the government’s recent warning to political leaders accused of fueling ethnic division and undermining constitutional institutions.

Speaking on behalf of the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, Ngetich praised the decisive stance taken by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) under Mohamed Amin and the National Police Service led by Inspector General Japhet Koome. He said their warning to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was both timely and necessary to safeguard national unity.

Ngetich accused Gachagua of engaging in sustained political rhetoric that he claimed risks inciting ethnic hostility, particularly in the Mt. Kenya region. According to the activist, the former deputy president has allegedly “weaponised” sections of the population by portraying the government as hostile to specific communities—claims he described as unfounded and dangerous.

He warned that repeated messaging suggesting that certain communities are under threat could create fear, deepen mistrust, and ultimately lay the groundwork for conflict. “Such statements carry significant weight in a country with a history of politically instigated ethnic tensions. If left unchecked, they can easily spiral into violence,” Ngetich said.

The activist emphasized that Kenya’s constitutional order must be respected by all leaders regardless of their political standing. He reiterated that William Ruto holds office as the duly elected head of state serving all Kenyans, dismissing narratives that frame the administration as representing a particular ethnic bloc.

“Any attempt to brand the current government as belonging to one community is not only misleading but also a direct threat to national cohesion,” he said. “Leadership in a الديمقراطية comes with responsibility—it is not a license to spread hate, misinformation, or to incite citizens against public institutions.”

Ngetich further raised concern over what he described as sustained attacks on key state agencies, particularly the DCI. He argued that publicly undermining investigative and security institutions could erode confidence in the rule of law and embolden individuals to defy lawful authority.

He also referenced growing concerns over the misuse of political platforms to mobilize support through divisive narratives. According to Ngetich, there are indications that some political actors could be preparing to incite unrest, particularly among young people, should legal action be taken against them.

“We urge Kenyan youth to remain vigilant and not allow themselves to be used as tools of political confrontation,” he said. “Any individual who engages in violence or destruction of property will face the full force of the law, regardless of who incited them.”

While reaffirming support for security agencies, Ngetich called for professionalism and impartiality in handling politically sensitive cases. He urged law enforcement to act firmly but fairly, ensuring that justice is applied equally and without political bias.

The activist also criticized sections of the opposition, including leaders such as Kalonzo Musyoka, accusing them of failing to provide constructive leadership and instead contributing to political misinformation. He called on all political actors to exercise restraint and prioritize the country’s stability over individual ambitions.

In his statement, Ngetich underscored the dangers of sustained political hostility, warning that Kenya cannot afford to slide into instability due to reckless political competition. He pointed to the country’s past experiences with election-related violence as a reminder of the consequences of unchecked incitement.

He concluded by calling for national dialogue rooted in truth, accountability, and respect for institutions. “Kenya’s democracy must be protected by all—leaders and citizens alike. Political competition should never come at the expense of peace and unity,” Ngetich said.

The statement comes at a time of heightened political activity and scrutiny, with authorities increasingly signaling a zero-tolerance approach to hate speech and incitement. Observers say the coming months will test the country’s commitment to democratic values, rule of law, and peaceful coexistence.