Eldoret-Based Activist Raises Alarm Over Incitement, Calls for Firm Action to Safeguard National Unity

An Eldoret-based human rights activist, Kipkorir Ngetich, has intensified his call for restraint in political discourse, warning that inflammatory statements by leaders could jeopardize national cohesion and peace ahead of future elections.

In an extended statement issued from Eldoret, Ngetich sharply criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of promoting what he termed as propaganda, tribal narratives, and incitement through his public remarks. According to the activist, such statements risk deepening divisions among communities, particularly within the Mt. Kenya region, and could undermine Kenya’s long-standing efforts toward unity and peaceful coexistence.

Ngetich took issue with allegations suggesting that the government is orchestrating discrimination in the issuance of national identification documents. He described the claims as “reckless, primitive, and irresponsible,” maintaining that the process is transparent and designed to benefit all Kenyans equally. He emphasized that the government has adopted an open-door policy that simplifies procedures for acquiring IDs, with the aim of ensuring that all eligible citizens can register as voters and participate fully in democratic processes.

“The issuance of national identification documents is a public service funded by taxpayers from every corner of this country,” Ngetich stated. “It is therefore illogical and misleading to claim that such a system can be used to target or exclude specific communities.”

The activist also defended the leadership of President William Ruto, pointing to what he described as a track record of inclusivity and equitable development. He cited the formation of a broad-based government and the rollout of development projects across multiple regions as evidence that the current administration is committed to serving all Kenyans without discrimination.

At the same time, Ngetich warned against what he described as the misuse of constitutional freedoms, particularly freedom of speech and expression. While acknowledging that democratic spaces allow for robust debate and criticism, he argued that such freedoms must be exercised responsibly and within the confines of the law.

“Freedom of expression is not a license to incite, insult, or spread falsehoods,” he said. “Leaders must understand that their words carry weight and can either build or destroy the fabric of our nation.”

Ngetich further alleged that Gachagua’s statements follow a familiar political script aimed at mobilizing sections of the Mt. Kenya community against the government. He expressed concern that such narratives could be used to create hostility and resentment, particularly among young people, whom he said are often the most vulnerable to political manipulation.

He issued a direct appeal to youth in the region, urging them to remain vigilant and avoid being drawn into divisive politics. Instead, he encouraged them to take advantage of government services, including ID registration, and to participate constructively in nation-building efforts.

“Young people must not allow themselves to be used as tools of conflict,” Ngetich said. “Their energy should be directed toward positive engagement, not violence or lawlessness.”

In his statement, the activist also called on key government institutions to take decisive and consistent action in addressing cases of incitement and hate speech. He specifically mentioned the offices of the Inspector General of Police, the Ministry of Interior, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, urging them to clarify the legal standing of Gachagua’s remarks and to ensure that the law is applied equally to all individuals.

Ngetich questioned what he described as an apparent lack of accountability, noting that many Kenyans have faced legal consequences for offenses such as incitement, defamation, and public disorder. He argued that failure to act in high-profile cases could create the perception that certain individuals are above the law, thereby eroding public confidence in state institutions.

“The rule of law must be upheld without fear or favor,” he asserted. “Selective enforcement not only weakens institutions but also sends a dangerous message that impunity is tolerated.”

He warned that history has shown how unchecked political incitement can escalate into broader conflicts, including inter-ethnic violence and social unrest. Drawing parallels with past instances of instability, Ngetich stressed the importance of addressing early warning signs before they develop into full-blown crises.

“Countries that ignore early signs of division often pay a heavy price,” he cautioned. “Kenya must not repeat such mistakes.”

The activist also expressed concern that continued inaction could embolden sections of the youth to engage in unlawful activities, believing that there are no consequences for defiance of the law. He emphasized that acts of violence, destruction of property, and disruption of public services are criminal offenses under Kenyan law and carry serious penalties that could negatively impact the future of those involved.

In a strongly worded conclusion, Ngetich called on security agencies to move beyond public warnings and take tangible steps to curb incitement and maintain order. He suggested that failure to act decisively could raise questions about the effectiveness of leadership within the relevant institutions.

As Kenya prepares for future electoral processes, Ngetich underscored the need for a peaceful and secure environment, urging all political actors to prioritize national unity over personal or political interests.

“Kenya belongs to all of us,” he said. “No individual, regardless of their position or ambition, should be allowed to destabilize the country for personal gain. Our diversity is our strength, and it must never be turned into a weapon.”

He concluded by reiterating his call for responsible leadership, active citizenship, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law as the country navigates its political landscape.