NCIC Tightens Social Media Monitoring Ahead of 2027 Elections

Nairobi Kenya 

Key Highlights

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has issued a strong warning over the deteriorating security situation in parts of the country, citing a surge in intercommunal violence that threatens Kenya’s peace and unity. In a detailed statement, the Commission attributed the unrest to climate-induced resource scarcity, cross-border insecurity, and irresponsible political rhetoric, while underscoring the urgent need for restraint, dialogue, and accountability.

According to NCIC, the failed short rains season of 2025 has intensified competition over land, water, and pasture, triggering deadly conflicts in Marsabit, Samburu, Tana River, Narok, and Turkana counties. The Commission reported loss of life, destruction of property worth millions, and the displacement of families—developments it says demand immediate, coordinated action by government, communities, and regional partners.

In Marsabit County, a cross-border raid in Illeret underscored the fragility of peace along Kenya’s northern frontier. NCIC noted that while security agencies responded promptly, the incident highlights the need for sustained diplomatic engagement between Kenya and Ethiopia to address recurring cross-border attacks and cattle rustling. A separate daylight ambush on a livestock lorry in Samburu County further disrupted trade and heightened insecurity around routine market activities, signaling growing boldness among armed groups.

Tana River County remains tense following weeks of clashes linked to land and grazing disputes, with the Commission expressing concern over emerging ethnic alliances that risk hardening divisions. In Narok County’s Ang’ata Barikoi area, renewed clashes between neighboring communities led to displacement and property destruction. Although curfews have brought relative calm, NCIC emphasized that security measures alone are insufficient without inclusive dialogue and durable peacebuilding frameworks.

The Commission also drew attention to sporadic attacks in Turkana’s Turkwel belt and heightened anxiety in Garissa following a fatal shooting during a security operation. Along the Garissa–Tana River border, unresolved historical grievances and competition over natural resources continue to pose escalation risks. NCIC further condemned a recent terrorist attack near Burabor in Mandera County, reaffirming the persistent threat of cross-border militancy in the North Eastern region and the need for early-warning systems and conflict-sensitive policing.

Beyond security concerns, NCIC sharply criticized remarks attributed to Nakuru West MP Hon. Samuel Arama, describing them as ethnic contempt that undermines constitutional principles of equality and inclusivity. The Commission said suggestions of discriminatory access to public funds could contravene the National Cohesion and Integration Act, 2008, and confirmed that formal investigations are underway, with legal action to follow where warranted.

As the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections, NCIC announced heightened enforcement of its Social Media Monitoring guidelines ahead of 2027, warning political actors, influencers, and media platforms against hate speech, incitement, and disinformation. The Commission called for responsible reporting, improved digital literacy, and stronger collaboration with social media companies to prevent online rhetoric from translating into offline violence.

NCIC concluded by urging political, religious, and community leaders to exercise restraint and honor their constitutional duty to serve all Kenyans without discrimination. It appealed to affected communities to reject violence and embrace dialogue, while pressing for long-term investments in climate adaptation, water infrastructure, and alternative livelihoods to address the root causes of conflict. Reaffirming its mandate, the Commission pledged to pursue accountability and remain steadfast in promoting peaceful coexistence and national unity.