National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to restore public confidence and take a leading role in fostering national unity throughout the year, rather than becoming active only during election periods.

Speaking during a meeting with NCIC officials led by Chairperson Bishop Kepha Omae at Parliament Buildings, Wetang’ula noted that the commission was established in the aftermath of the 2007 post-election violence to heal political divisions but has continued to struggle with public trust.

“NCIC has a serious credibility challenge. It should not be seen as an institution that only becomes active during elections,” he said.

The Speaker emphasized that continuous civic education is the most effective way to transform attitudes and build lasting national cohesion.

“There is nothing wrong with belonging to a particular community. The problem arises when that identity is used to discriminate against or oppress others,” he added.

Wetang’ula also called on NCIC to strengthen collaboration with the Ministry of Education to promote a culture of unity among students and young people.

He further urged the commission to work closely with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Judiciary, and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to enhance its effectiveness.

“You have the mandate to investigate, but prosecutions are handled by the DPP. NCIC must earn public respect through professionalism. Parliament will continue supporting the commission within the law,” he said.

The Speaker added that elections are an ongoing process rather than a one-day event, stressing that NCIC has a critical role in addressing hate speech and holding accountable leaders who incite division.

Meanwhile, NCIC Chairperson Bishop Kepha Omae said the commission has already begun preparations for the 2027 General Election through a strategy focused on conflict prevention, strengthening partnerships, and engaging key stakeholders.

“We have developed an implementation roadmap. Our goal is to work with other institutions and political leaders to reduce discrimination and tribalism,” Omae said.

He added that NCIC will collaborate closely with community elders, religious leaders, schools, and other educational institutions to promote peaceful politics while urging political leaders to refrain from inflammatory and divisive rhetoric.

NCIC Commissioner Jerusha Mwaathime also appealed to Parliament to grant the commission expanded investigative powers, saying this would enable it to more effectively address cases of hate speech and actions that fuel division across the country.