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Tame hate speech
Politicians must always be sensitive about comments or remarks they make in public that may be construed as aimed at belittling others, inciting hatred or causing disaffection. As leaders, they must avoid reckless and divisive talk and rally supporters to forge unity.
It is in realisation of the danger of hate speech and incitement that the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) was established by the government. Its key mission is to eliminate discrimination and promote equality and national unity.
This is not a particularly good time for Lang’ata MP Felix Odiwuor, who has come under scrutiny over remarks he made about witchcraft in Kisii County. The MP, a well-known professional comedian, whose stage name in Jalang’o, has been trending for the wrong reasons.
He, perhaps in jest, claimed that he had during his short stay in the county, seen a group of men he referred to as a “council of witches” discussing the development projects done by a local MP. He also called them nightrunners, whose nocturnal activities had been curtailed by the installation of electricity in the villages.
The first-time lawmaker was most likely trying to drive home his point about promoting rural development, but his remarks have ruffled feathers as they sounded insensitive.
The MP has been accused of painting the Kisii community in a negative light. And two lawyers have filed a formal complaint against him. They have asked the NCIC to investigate the incident and take disciplinary action against him.
However, some local leaders have defended the MP, arguing that he did not mean any harm and was only being the comedian he is.
In January, the NCIC summoned and questioned 10 politicians who were accused of hate speech and incitement to violence.
Unfortunately, there have never been any convictions as such charges often get dropped. There is a need to tame hate speech by politicians.
