By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
Kenya, May 20, 2026 - Bishop Dr. Kepha Nyamweya Omae was on Wednesday sworn in as Chairperson of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) alongside seven commissioners before Chief Justice Martha Koome at the Supreme Court of Kenya.
The swearing-in officially ushered in the commission’s fourth cohort of leadership at a time when Kenya is entering an increasingly sensitive political period ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The incoming team is expected to take over the responsibility of safeguarding national unity, addressing hate speech, preventing ethnic and political tensions, and promoting peaceful coexistence across the country.
In his inaugural address, Bishop Dr. Omae delivered a strong warning against political violence and divisive politics.
“No election, no office, no ambition is worth the blood of a Kenyan,” he said.
The newly sworn-in commissioners are Dr. Josephine Kirion Eragae, Mr. Joseph K. Nguyo, Mr. Jackson Swadi Kedogo, Dr. Samuel Mwachiro Mwawasi, Ms. Irene Chepoisho Tulel, Mr. Hassan Billow Ahmed and Ms. Jerusah Mwaathime Michael.
The commissioners now assume office amid growing national concern over rising political intolerance, inflammatory rhetoric and increasing tensions linked to early political mobilisation ahead of the next election cycle.
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Speaking during the ceremony, Bishop Dr. Omae said the commission would prioritise healing divisions and strengthening public confidence in institutions tasked with protecting national cohesion.
He noted that Kenya still faces deep social, ethnic and political divisions that continue to threaten peaceful coexistence if left unaddressed.
The new leadership also pledged to work closely with communities, religious organisations, civil society groups and government agencies to strengthen dialogue, inclusion and conflict prevention mechanisms across the country.
Chief Justice Martha Koome presided over the swearing-in ceremony at the Supreme Court buildings in Nairobi, formally marking the beginning of the commission’s new six-year term.
The reconstitution of the NCIC comes after President William Ruto nominated the new commissioners earlier this year before they were vetted and approved by Parliament.
As the new chapter begins, the commission says it intends to reposition itself as a key institution in promoting dialogue, curbing hate speech and preventing political violence as the country heads toward another highly competitive election period.