Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku Grilled by NCIC Over Alleged Hate Speech

Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku Grilled by NCIC Over Alleged Hate Speech

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has appeared before the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to respond to questions over remarks that have sparked concerns about political tensions and ethnic divisions in the Mt Kenya region.

Ruku appeared before the commission on Tuesday, where he engaged commissioners over statements attributed to him during recent political activities. The meeting focused on concerns surrounding his comments about political alignments within the Mt Kenya region and their possible impact on national cohesion.

Speaking after the session, Ruku said he was obligated as a state officer to appear before constitutional institutions whenever required.

“As a state officer and public servant, I have to subject myself to all the constitutional institutions. And that’s why I came. And we had very cordial and good discussions this morning with the entire commission.”

The CS said the meeting provided an opportunity to clarify issues raised by the commission and suggested that the discussions had helped resolve some of the concerns surrounding his remarks.

“And we have clarified where we needed to clarify. And we are moving in a very good direction. Thank you.”

NCIC Vice Chair Irene Chepoisho Tulel said the commission would review the information obtained during the session before making its determination.

“The Commission will be retreating to assess and analyse the discussions that we’ve had. And then we’ll give our determination next week.”

Tulel added that Ruku would be informed of the commission’s position once the review was complete.

“So we’ll be calling you next week to give you on the way forward that the Commission would have decided.”

Ruku’s Mt Kenya Remarks Under Scrutiny

The controversy surrounding Ruku stems from his comments on political loyalties within the wider Mt Kenya region.

The CS has previously advocated for a political shift involving Mt Kenya East, comprising Embu, Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties. He has argued that communities in the eastern section of the mountain have supported leaders from the western side for decades without receiving sufficient development benefits in return.

Ruku’s remarks have been interpreted by critics as advocating for a political separation between Mt Kenya East and Mt Kenya West.

The Cabinet secretary, however, has maintained that his position is driven by the desire to secure development for his region.

“I will divide the mountain because I want to get my people’s development. I will leave the West, which has already been developed, to go to the opposition. I cannot allow the East to lack development.”

The remarks have attracted attention at a time when political leaders are positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.

NCIC Expands Hate Speech Probe

Ruku is among several political leaders who have recently been summoned by NCIC over statements considered potentially divisive.

Busia Governor Paul Otwoma appeared before the commission a day earlier, while Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma was also questioned over remarks allegedly linked to hate speech.

The commission is also expected to summon nominated MP Joseph Wainaina over comments made in Uasin Gishu that have generated debate about relations among different communities.

Wainaina’s remarks have further intensified political debate within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), with Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba warning that she could reconsider her association with the party if alleged hate speech by some UDA allies is not addressed.

The NCIC’s ongoing inquiries come as political rhetoric increasingly takes centre stage ahead of the 2027 polls.

The commission is mandated to promote national cohesion and address discrimination and ethnic-related tensions. Its anticipated determination on Ruku’s case will therefore be closely watched as political activity continues to intensify across the country.

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Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku Grilled by NCIC Over Alleged Hate Speech