The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has formally opened investigations into former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and several high-profile leaders over hate speech and incitement. \

While addressing the media on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, the commission named Gachagua alongside Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, and others, including Busia governor Paul Otuoma and other MPs.

“His Excellency Rigathi Gachagua, former deputy president of the Republic of Kenya; Cabinet Secretary Honourable Aden Duale; Cabinet Secretary Honourable Paul Yongesa Otoma; Governor of Busia County, His Excellency Dr Ali Mali Muhammad; Deputy Governor of Mandera County, Honourable John Koyi Waluke MP of Sirisia; Honourable Wanjiku E. Muhia; Honourable David Gikaria; Tipe Musa; and Dr Dennis Edson,” NCIC chair stated.

“As investigations proceed, all parties remain entitled to their rights until any wrongdoing is proven. The outcome of the NCIC probe could have significant implications for political discourse and accountability among Kenyan leaders in the coming months,” he added.

NCIC Chairperson Reverend Kepha Omae emphasised that the probe adheres strictly to the law, assuring due process for all individuals involved while collaborating with agencies such as the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the Ethics and Corruption Commission (EACC) and the ODPP.

Duale – Gachagua woes

The move comes amid escalating political exchanges.

Health CS Aden Duale had earlier declared he would not honour any NCIC summons unless Gachagua were also compelled to appear. Duale accused the former DP of making divisive remarks targeting the Somali and Muslim communities, including questions over appointments in the security sector and comments on businesses in Eastleigh.

Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku echoed this position, urging the commission to prioritise Gachagua for his alleged ethnic rhetoric before pursuing government officials.

Gachagua’s past summons

Gachagua has a history of facing NCIC scrutiny. In previous instances, he was summoned over statements linked to potential post-election violence and ethnic profiling but often challenged the commission’s impartiality.

The current probe highlights ongoing concerns about inflammatory political discourse in Kenya, especially as the country gears up for the 2027 general election. NCIC has stressed it does not rely solely on viral social media clips and requires formal complaints to initiate action.

Critics argue the commission has been inconsistent in enforcement, with accusations of selective accountability flying from both sides of the political divide. Supporters of the probe view it as a necessary step to safeguard national unity, while others see it as part of broader political manoeuvring. The commission has urged the public to lodge official petitions rather than rely on unverified content circulating online.