In a press statement published in the media recently, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) warned of an emerging trend of political intolerance in the country.
“This conduct directly violates the principles enshrined in Chapter Six of our Constitution, which emphasises integrity, respect, and accountability in leadership,” wrote The Star in a story, ‘NCIC raises alarm over rise in political intolerance,’ published on June 10, 2025.
Quoting Chairperson Dr Samuel Kobia, who cited use of harsh language, inciting remarks and use of goons, The Star reported him as stating, the perturbing trend and rising tension could derail efforts made in fostering national cohesion.
“We must act as patriots committed to safeguarding the peace and unity that Kenya has enjoyed, and remains essential for our continued development,” The Star reported on Dr Kobia’s statement.
He urged political leaders and their supporters to exercise restraint, as holding different opinions should never cause Kenyans to view each other as enemies.
The Commission was deeply concerned by reported cases of illegal mobilisation of groups, leading to incidents of violence and destruction of property.
Nothing can attest to the escalating chaos and mayhem than last week’s events, when goons ruled Nairobi CBD, during protests against the killing of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang’.
Videos and pictures of thugs carrying batons, brazenly breaking into business premises, stealing and harassing pedestrians with little police presence or intervention, sent a signal of how an unruly nation can be.
Media should hold the law enforcement agencies to account, bearing in mind that these events seem to be recurring, and police are expected to swing into action to protect lives and property.
In the headline, ‘Nairobi CBD traders reel from protest chaos,’ Nation newspaper wrote on Wednesday June 18: “Scattered glass and shattered windows lined streets after several shops were looted by goons, leaving traders counting heavy losses after goods and property were stolen in the mayhem.”
The media should investigate the reasons why the law enforcement agencies appeared laid-back in dealing with lawlessness.
Furthermore, as the business community, which pays substantial taxes for State protection, counts its losses and citizens nurse injuries, the media should scrutinise the readiness of various security agencies to handle similar volatile situations in future.
With people and their leaders accelerating the gear for good governance in the country, the media in its professional conduct and objectivity should foster a sober debate, considerate of maintaining a stable nation where all will enjoy living peacefully.
