Gatanga MP Edward Muriu Defends Gachagua, Criticizes NCIC Over Reprimand

 

Gatanga Member of Parliament Edward Muriu has fiercely defended former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following a reprimand from the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over remarks he made in Meru County. Muriu accused the NCIC of political bias and of attempting to stifle freedom of expression, labeling the reprimand as politically motivated.

Gachagua had recently warned President William Ruto against visiting Meru if Chief Justice Martha Koome were to be removed from office, a statement that prompted backlash from the NCIC. The Commission expressed concern that Gachagua’s comments could deepen ethnic divisions and fuel political hostility. However, Muriu, a staunch ally of Gachagua, dismissed the reprimand, claiming that the remarks were being misconstrued for political gain.

"The NCIC should be an impartial arbiter of national unity, not a tool for silencing certain leaders while turning a blind eye to others," Muriu said. He questioned the consistency of the NCIC’s actions, pointing out that other leaders who have made similarly provocative statements in the past have not faced the same scrutiny.

Muriu argued that Gachagua’s comments were simply a reflection of concerns raised by the people and not an incitement of division, urging the NCIC to focus on genuine threats to national cohesion rather than issuing reprimands that could be seen as politically motivated. "We must ensure that institutions like the NCIC remain neutral and uphold justice for all, without allowing political bias to guide their actions," Muriu added.

The NCIC, led by Dr. Samuel Kobia, has yet to respond directly to Muriu’s criticisms. However, the ongoing controversy reflects the growing political tensions in the country as leaders continue to clash over issues of governance, unity, and expression.

As political temperatures rise, Muriu’s comments echo broader concerns about the potential for government institutions to be used as tools for political targeting. He called for fairness in handling national matters, stressing that the focus should remain on protecting unity and fostering an inclusive political environment.

The controversy over Gachagua's remarks is likely to continue as the debate over political expression and national unity unfolds.

March 05, 2025