By KPC Reporter
President William Ruto has today announced a fresh slate of nominations to the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), signalling renewed focus on tackling ethnic discrimination and hate speech.
The nominations, made on the recommendation of a Selection Panel, await parliamentary approval before the appointees can formally assume office.
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Leading the team is Mr. Kepha Nyamweya Omae from Kisii County, nominated as Chairperson.
He will be joined by seven commissioners: Ms. Josphine Kirion Eragae (Isiolo), Mr. Joseph K. Nguyo (Nyeri), Mr. Jackson Swadi Kedogo (Vihiga), Dr. Samuel Mwachiro Mwawasi (Taita Taveta), Ms. Irene Chepoisho Tulel, HSC (West Pokot), Mr. Hassan Billow Ahmed (Wajir), and Ms. Jerusah Mwaathime Michael (Kitui).
In a statement issued by Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix K. Koskei, the Executive Office of the President underscored the urgency of the appointments, noting the Commission’s “consequential mandate to foster national cohesion and unity as well as advance peaceful coexistence by confronting ethnic discrimination and hate speech.”
Koskei urged the National Assembly to prioritise consideration of the nominees.
Omae, the nominated Chairperson of NCIC, is a Kisii-born cleric and community leader known for his pastoral work and advocacy for peace.
He succeeds Rev. Dr. Samuel Kobia, whose six-year term ended in November 2025.
Omae is known for championing dialogue and reconciliation, particularly in contexts of ethnic and political tension.
The NCIC has long been a cornerstone institution in promoting harmony among Kenya’s diverse communities, although critics say the commission does not have strong teeth to bite.
