National Assembly opposes proposal for Peace Commission, calls for empowerment of NCIC

During a joint retreat with the NCIC in Mombasa, the committee, led by its chairman Adan Haji, was briefed on the proposal. The NPC would also manage the Peace Building Fund, as outlined in the Peace Building Architecture (PBA) report prepared by a team of experts funded by the Interior Ministry.

“The report was developed by a committee of experts mandated by the Interior Ministry. The NCIC was only invited to present its views, just like other entities,” said NCIC Chairman Dr. Samuel Kobia.

The PBA report proposes wide-ranging initiatives to promote peace, cohesion, and integration, including empowering national peacebuilding institutions to educate Kenyans—especially the youth—on their roles and responsibilities in peacebuilding.

Despite the report's ambitions, Members of Parliament strongly opposed the establishment of a new commission, arguing that it would place an unnecessary financial burden on Kenyans.

Ndhiwa MP Martin Owino stated, “Creating another commission is unnecessary when we already have the NCIC. Instead, the government should enhance funding for the NCIC, which is currently underfunded.”

Kaspul MP Charles Were echoed these sentiments, warning that creating the NPC could undermine the NCIC’s mandate. “How do you kill one entity just to create another?” he asked.

Teso North MP Oku Kaunya highlighted the financial implications, stating, “The Peace Building Fund will increase the financial burden on Kenyans. We cannot afford additional taxes for redundant commissions.”

Nyeri Town MP Charles Mathenge urged the government to focus on empowering the NCIC to implement key recommendations from the Ndung’u Land Report and the Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) report.

Kajiado North MP Onesmus Ngogoyo noted that Kenyans have consistently resisted the creation of new government entities, and the NPC proposal would likely meet the same fate.

The committee emphasized the need to strengthen the NCIC, noting that the National Cohesion and Integration Bill, 2023, seeks to enhance the commission's funding and capacity. The bill, currently awaiting its second reading, received significant support during public participation exercises conducted in June.

“The overwhelming feedback from Kenyans on the bill is a clear indication of their interest in the legislative process,” said National Assembly Legal Officer Audry Andala.

Dr. Kobia also highlighted the NCIC’s achievements, including the development of the Transgenerational Conversation Framework. The framework fosters political accountability and involves youth in peacebuilding initiatives, addressing concerns raised during recent Gen Z demonstrations.

The National Assembly Committee urged the government to prioritize strengthening existing institutions like the NCIC, rather than creating new commissions that add to the financial strain on citizens.