National Cohesion commission identifies two Mt Kenya counties notorious for hate speech 

Image result for police throw teargas kenyaThe National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has identified eight(8) counties that have become increasingly notorious for hate speech remarks.

Among them, the commission has identified two mt Kenya stronghold areas that have been on the spot for hate speech.Image result for potential hatespeech hotspot Counties

The commission says that it is closely monitoring the various regions with a view to averting possible arrests and has launched several peace initiatives as the country experiences renewed political activity ahead of 2022 polls.

Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Kiambu, Kilifi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Nyeri, Kakamega counties have been identified by as potential hate speech hotspots.

The commissioners also cautioned politicians against incitement saying hate speech mongers that commits an offence under the hate speech section shall be liable to a fine not exceeding Kes 1,000,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or both.

Before the 2013 elections, the Kikuyu and the Kalenjin struck a political alliance, bringing together President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto.Image result for police throw teargas kenya

As the 2022 election draws near, some in the Rift Valley hope the alliance will keep the region calm.

But others say the fragile peace could easily collapse.

Four of the 10 counties listed as hotspots for potential violence by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) are in the Rift Valley.Image result for police throw teargas kenya

This comes after increased political divisions that have led to leaders using hate speech incitement among Kenyans.

NCIC said that the Constitution recognises and encourages freedom of speech, however, this right does not extend to incitement of violence, hate speech, propaganda for war or advocacy of hatred.

The Rift Valley is likely to remain a tinderbox, especially ahead of the next election in 2022 as it remains to be seen whether Kikuyus will maintain their pledge to back Ruto for president.

 

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