NCIC clears MP Kaluma, Governor Otuoma over alleged incitement

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has cleared Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament Peter Kaluma and Busia Governor Paul Otuoma over utterances allegedly linked to incitement.

The commission says it found no grounds to charge the two, noting that Otuoma's remarks did not target any community, while Kaluma's remarks concerned claims of goons being hired by certain individuals.

The two have 14 days to sign peace pledges.

NCIC also says nominated MP Joseph Wainaina Iraya admitted to an error in judgment over his remarks in Uasin Gishu and asked for forgiveness.

Kaluma was summoned after a viral video captured him allegedly telling a political gathering to deal with persons who are against President William Ruto’s re-election.

“As of today, we are issuing the command that anyone that says one term deal with them. Anyone that has worked with the other side, even if they were a driver and they feel they cannot walk with us, must now disappear,” Kaluma stated, as quoted by the commission in August. 

The remarks seemed to have targeted the President’s opponents, who have used the words “one term” to imply that the Head of State should not be re-elected for another term. 

The commission also quoted Kaluma saying; “We are going to inspect all hotels and houses where they had booked, anyone who owns a hotel in Homa Bay must tell us all the guest they have, we must deal with those people and we might deal with the hotel too. I have paid for the fuel you will use to move across Homa Bay and Rodi.” 

“This is an ODM stronghold and we insist that Ruto is two-term. If anyone speaks of one-term deal with them.”

The MP made the statements before an opposition rally led by Linda Mwananchi group, which was held in Homa Bay County on Sunday, August 16.