Hatemongering Politicians to be Denied Visas as NCIC Steps up War on Hate Speech

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) says politicians who make hate speech will be denied visas to travel abroad.

NCIC Chairperson Samuel Kobia said the commission has already discussed the matter with at least 15 envoys.

Kobia stated that the commission is determined to tame politicians who spew hatred and incite violence ahead of next year’s general election.
 
“If we don’t give them visas, then they will behave. More so, those who incite violence should not be allowed to go to Europe or North America. This will ensure that they stop behaving the way they do,” Kobia said at Bomas of Kenya on Tuesday.

Kobia indicated that the commission is in the process of preparing a list of shame comprising political leaders accused of hate speech and incitement to violence.

“Some pleaded saying they hope their name won’t be in the list of shame. This has made hate speech go down. These politicians don’t want their friends to know that they are on the list,” he said.

NCIC released its maiden list of shame in February this year. Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and MPs Johanna Ng'eno (Emurua Dikirr), Simba Arati (Dagoretti North), and Sylvanus Osoro (South Mugirango) appeared in the list. 

NCIC said the four were named in the list of shame for engaging in violence and making utterances that undermine peace in the country. 

“If a politician or any other Kenyan has appeared on the list of shame more than three times, he or she will be promoted to the wall of shame. We are working with other agencies to ensure they do not hold any political office ever,” Kobia warned.

“We are closely monitoring politicians’ behavior. We will name and shame those not in compliance with the law."