The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has condemned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following his controversial remarks referring to the 2007/2008 post-election violence as a “Christmas party.”
In a statement released on Wednesday, May 21, the NCIC described the comments as deeply offensive and recklessly insensitive, emphasizing that such language risks undermining Kenya’s hard-earned peace and national unity.
The 2007/2008 post-election crisis remains one of the most tragic episodes in Kenya’s history, resulting in the deaths of over 1,100 people and the displacement of hundreds of thousands.
Gachagua’s characterization has sparked widespread outrage, reopening wounds for victims and survivors still grappling with the aftermath.
The Commission, chaired by Samuel Kobia, expressed grave concern that trivializing the violence in this manner disregards the pain and suffering experienced by thousands of Kenyans.
By likening the conflict to a festive event, Gachagua’s remarks were seen as disrespectful to those who lost loved ones and to the communities that have struggled to heal.
NCIC has vowed to pursue accountability, working alongside other government agencies to address what it terms as irresponsible and harmful rhetoric.
The Commission stressed the importance of responsible leadership in fostering cohesion and warned against statements that could inflame ethnic tensions or destabilize peace.
