The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has summoned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over remarks he made comparing the 2007/2008 post-election violence to a “Christmas party.”

The statement, made during a recent interview, has drawn sharp criticism from leaders and citizens alike, who say it trivializes one of Kenya’s darkest moments.

The 2007/2008 post-election violence claimed over 1,000 lives and left thousands more displaced and traumatized. For many Kenyans, the pain of that time is still raw. It is a period remembered with sorrow, not something to be downplayed or joked about. NCIC Chairman Samuel Kobia, in a press briefing held on May 21, 2025, said the comparison was not only inflammatory but also a dangerous provocation that disrespects the victims and undermines national cohesion.

“To refer to the 2007/2008 post-election violence as a ‘Christmas party’ is appalling and there is absolutely nothing festive about death, displacement, and the trauma thousands of Kenyans still live with today,” Kobia stated. “Such trivialisation shows a stark insensitivity to victims’ memories and the remarkable resilience of survivors. We must never forget the over 1,000 lives lost and the widespread devastation of that period.”

Kobia further warned that inflammatory statements by leaders threaten to divide the nation and undermine efforts toward peace and reconciliation. “The practice of using these inflammatory utterances has posed a severe risk to national cohesion, leading to division rather than unity,” he added.

Although the NCIC did not provide a specific date for Gachagua to appear, the commission confirmed that he had been summoned and that they were working closely with relevant government agencies to hold him accountable. “Reckless speech from any leader will not be tolerated,” Kobia emphasized.

In his defense, Gachagua denied encouraging violence. He claimed his remarks were taken out of context and insisted he was merely warning of possible unrest if the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) fails to conduct free and fair elections in 2027. “I did not say there will be violence,” he explained. “I have also pleaded with the IEBC to remain patriotic because history has shown us what can happen when elections are contested.”

Still, the damage of his words has already sparked a broader national conversation about the responsibility of leaders to promote peace and unity. The NCIC also issued a general warning to all public figures and citizens to avoid inflammatory language, noting that such rhetoric disrupts the fragile harmony that Kenya continues to build.

As the country approaches the 2027 general elections, the spotlight is now on leaders to act responsibly. Kenya cannot afford a repeat of the horrors witnessed in 2007. Unity, peace, and respect must be at the heart of political dialogue—and that begins with how we speak and the weight our words carry.

The call is simple but urgent: Let leaders be the voice of reason, not division. Let the wounds of the past teach us the value of peace.