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Kennedy Langat, a resident of Nakuru Town West, has formally petitioned the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over remarks allegedly made by Hon. Arama, Member of Parliament for Nakuru Town West, during a public bursary cheque distribution event on 16th January 2026.
In the petition, Langat claims that Hon. Arama made statements that were inciteful, discriminatory, and demeaning, potentially inflaming ethnic tensions and undermining national cohesion. Specific remarks attributed to the MP include:
“Kwenu ni wapi?”
“Wewe ni Mkalee?”
“I wish Kalenjins wangekua wananipigia kura vile wananiletea mashida.”
“Hawa watu wakati ya kura wanasema Arama ni Mkisii. Wakati wa usaidizi, munakuja hapa munataka kuwasaidia, na wewe kama unajua ungekua wewe kama ungekua mtu mwerevu, haungekuja hapa.”
Langat argues that these statements suggest access to public resources, development initiatives, and assistance could be conditional on ethnic or political alignment, implying that certain communities, particularly the Kalenjin, may be unfairly excluded from benefits. He further notes that the MP’s question about a constituent’s area of origin (“Kwenu ni wapi?”) could create the perception that some regions of the constituency are less deserving of attention or development, fostering division within the community.
The petitioner highlights that such remarks, when made by a sitting Member of Parliament, stigmatize entire communities, legitimize exclusion from public services, and undermine constitutional principles of equality, non-discrimination, and inclusive leadership. Langat further points out that Kenya’s history demonstrates how careless or inflammatory political speech can escalate tensions and threaten peace.
Under Article 33(2) of the Constitution and the National Cohesion and Integration Act, 2008, freedom of expression does not protect speech that amounts to hate speech, incitement to violence, or advocacy of hatred. Langat urges the NCIC to:
1. Investigate the remarks to determine if they contravene the law.
2. Summon Hon. Arama to provide clarification and record a statement.
3. Take appropriate legal or administrative action if the remarks are found unlawful.
4. Issue guidance or advisories to deter similar conduct by public officials and safeguard national cohesion.
Langat emphasized that the petition is submitted in good faith, in the interest of peace, unity, equality, and responsible leadership. He stated that a video capturing the incident, which has circulated publicly, will be provided to the Commission as evidence.
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Amos Lumbasi
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