The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has raised concerns about the potential threat to national unity should embattled Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua face impeachment by the Senate. In a statement issued through its chairperson, Samuel Kobia, the NCIC warned that the impeachment could spark conflicts across the country, further polarizing an already tense political environment.
“ The future of our nation is not on the horizon, it is being shaped here today. We hold the power to sculpt a future for Kenya, together, through our diverse voices.”
NCIC Chairman Dr. Samuel Kobia.
Kobia cautioned that removing Gachagua from office, if the Senate upholds the National Assembly’s decision, could lead to divisions among Kenyans along political and ethnic lines. “Such a decision may exacerbate existing tensions, and we urge all leaders to prioritize national cohesion and ensure that the due process is followed without fueling divisions,” he said.
The Senate is set to debate the motion of impeachment on Wednesday and Thursday this week, a highly anticipated session that will ultimately decide Gachagua’s fate. The Deputy President, facing accusations that include abuse of office and gross misconduct, has consistently denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated.
The NCIC’s warning comes as various political factions rally support, with proponents of the impeachment emphasizing the need for accountability, while others argue that it is a deliberate move to destabilize the government. Kobia urged both sides to temper their rhetoric to avoid stirring unnecessary tension that could lead to violence.
To pass, the motion requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate. Should the motion succeed, Kenya could face a new phase of political uncertainty. However, the NCIC has called on citizens to remain calm regardless of the outcome, emphasizing that peace and stability must prevail over political differences.
Public discourse around the impeachment process has been intense, with the Judiciary already handling several petitions aimed at stopping the Senate proceedings. The impeachment motion follows an earlier move in the National Assembly spearheaded by Kibwezi East MP Mwengi Mutuse.
The coming days will determine whether the Senate aligns with the Assembly’s position or if Gachagua survives the mounting political pressure. Regardless of the outcome, the NCIC’s warning underscores the importance of national unity in these uncertain times.
