Marakwet Daughter
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has summoned musician Millicent Jerotich Kipkorir, also known as Marakwet Daughter, over the lyrics of her latest song, "Arap Ruto."

The NCIC alleges that the song's lyrics are “likely to incite feelings of ethnic contempt, hatred, and hostility and affect harmonious coexistence between different ethnic communities in Kenya, contrary to Section 13(1)(a) and Section 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act."

Kipkorir was required to appear before the commission on February 5, 2025, to assist in their investigation.

Marakwet Daughter rose to prominence last year with her popular song, "Mali Safi Chito." Her latest track, however, takes a decidedly political turn.

In "Arap Ruto," she directly addresses President William Ruto, expressing concerns about the hardships faced by Kenyans.

She sings, “Arap Ruto, when did we wrong you? Where? Tell us. Speak up,” and continues, “You buried pity in Sugoi and humanity in Kapchagir.”

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Marakwet Daughter

The song, which blends Swahili, Kalenjin, and English, critiques various government policies, including the competency-based curriculum (CBC), the new university funding model replacing HELB, and the introduction of the Social Health Authority (SHA) in place of NHIF.

The music video, featuring clips of President Ruto at public rallies, has quickly garnered over 164,000 views on YouTube.

This summons places Marakwet Daughter among a growing number of individuals recently called before the NCIC for allegedly inflammatory remarks.

Other recent cases include MPs Dan Wanyama (Webuye West) and Mwago Amos Maina (Starehe), who were investigated for statements deemed likely to incite hostility and undermine national unity.

Wanyama's remarks were made at a prayer event, while Mwago's were delivered at a public forum.

The NCIC's actions have surprisingly drawn criticism, particularly from Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi who is a close ally of the head of state.

Sudi defended Marakwet Daughter, stating, “NCIC, leave Marakwet Daughter alone! I've got a list of about 50 names that would be a much better use of your time instead of this nonsense. This lady has a chance to be understood. Leave her alone and stop this foolishness!”