Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku addressing the media after appearing before the National Cohesion and Integration Commission on September 1, 2026. /SCREENGRAB
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has appeared before the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over allegations of hate speech, ethnic incitement and divisive public utterances.
Ruku was questioned by the commission on Tuesday, September 1, as part of a widening probe into remarks by several high-profile leaders that NCIC suspects could undermine national cohesion or stir ethnic tensions.
The CS was placed under the commission's radar in July alongside other leaders following remarks that were flagged for possible violations of laws governing hate speech and national cohesion.
NCIC announced on July 28 that it was investigating Ruku and other leaders.
The commission later issued formal summons requiring him to appear and record a statement, with the summons announced on August 4.
Speaking after his appearance, Ruku said he had explained the context in which the remarks under investigation were made.
He said the commission would now review his submissions and those already in its possession before making a determination.
"We had a very cordial and good discussions this morning with the entire commission and we have clarified where we needed to clarify and we are moving in a very good direction," Ruku said.
The CS said NCIC had indicated that it would analyse the information presented before deciding on the next course of action.
"The resolution is that the NCIC will be retreating to do the analysis of what they have and what I have explained and then they will make a determination in the coming week or so. That is the conclusion," he said.
Ruku is the latest high-profile leader to appear before the commission as it intensifies scrutiny of public utterances considered potentially divisive as the country gears toward the 2027 electioneering period.
Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia appeared before NCIC on August 24, while Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma and Busia Governor Paul Otuoma appeared on August 31.
NCIC confirmed on Tuesday that Kaluma and Otuoma had honoured their summons and made submissions regarding the utterances under investigation.
The commission said it had taken note of their responses and was considering the matters before determining the appropriate way forward.
Other prominent leaders who have recently been targeted or summoned in connection with the wider hate speech probe include former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.
Ruku used his appearance to urge leaders to avoid statements that could incite violence or promote hatred, stressing the importance of respecting the rule of law.
The CS said leaders should cooperate with constitutional institutions when required to answer questions arising from their conduct or public statements.
"And when called upon by any constitutional institution, we should respect that," he said.
