NCIC finds MP Kaguchia's remarks 'threatening,' gives him 7 days to apologise

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has found that remarks made by Mukurweini Member of Parliament John Philip Kaguchia at a political gathering in Kieni, Nyeri County, in August were threatening, coercive and intimidating.

In a detailed statement issued on Wednesday, the commission said it has given mp Kaguchia seven days to withdraw the statements and issue a public apology.

NCIC said the statements undermined the freedom of individuals to choose whom to support politically without facing threats or communal punishment.

The inquiry centred on remarks made on or about August 1, 2026. According to the certified translation relied upon by the commission, Kaguchia said supporters of “Kasongo” or “Kasongo’s people” would be followed and removed from beneath their beds, while also calling for records to be kept of such supporters.

NCIC said the utterances created a risk of intimidation, exclusion and harm to peaceful coexistence.

"The commission considered the actual words, their public setting, the Respondent's influence as an elected MP and listeners' ability to carry out the threatened measures. The calls concerned things that neighbours and other community members could do directly," read the statement by Chairperson Bishop Dr. Kepha Nyamweya.

Kaguchia appeared before the commission on August 31, 2026, accompanied by his advocates who challenged the English translation contained in the summons and asked the commission to defer the inquiry because of related criminal proceedings.

The MP declined to make a substantive statement, citing his right to silence and privilege against self-incrimination.

The commission said it did not draw a conclusion from his decision to remain silent and instead relied on independent evidence in making its determination.

Among the corrective measures, the commission instructed the lawmaker to issue an apology in Kikuyu, Kiswahili and English and also organise and fund peacebuilding activities that will aid society.

"Hon Kaguchia shall communicate acceptance or proposed variations within seven days from the date of the determination. The Commission will endeavour to conclude settlement discussions within 30 days from that date," Dr. Nyamweya stated.

NCIC said it would monitor any repetition of the statements, implementation of threatened measures within its mandate and compliance with any agreed terms.