NCIC summons MP Kaluma over 'deal with one-term supporters' remarks

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NCIC summons MP Kaluma over 'deal with one-term supporters' remarks

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The commission has warned the MP that failure to appear before the body would lead to his arrest.

Kaluma is expected to “assist the Commission with the ongoing investigations” over remarks he made in Homa Bay County last week.

Speaking in his local dialect, Kaluma was quoted telling a political gathering to deal with persons who are against President William Ruto’s re-election.

“As of today, we are issuing the command that anyone that says one term deal with them. Anyone that has worked with the other side, even if they were a driver and they feel they cannot walk with us, must now disappear,” Kaluma stated, as quoted by the commission.

The remarks seem to have targeted the president’s opponents, who have used the words “one term” to imply that the Head of State should not be re-elected for another term.

The commission also quoted Kaluma saying; “We are going to inspect all hotels and houses where they had booked, anyone who owns a hotel in Homa Bay must tell us all the guest they have, we must deal with those people and we might deal with the hotel too. I have paid for the fuel you will use to move across Homa Bay and Rodi.”

“This is an ODM stronghold and we insist that Ruto is two-term. If anyone speaks of one-term deal with them,” he added.

The MP made the statements before an opposition rally led by Linda Mwananchi group, which was held in Homa Bay County on Sunday, August 16.

The said rally was marred by violence, as roads were blocked and private properties looted on Saturday night.

The violence continued to Sunday, prompting Edwin Sifuna-led Linda Mwananchi group to find alternative routes to access towns in Homa Bay.

After the violence, NCIC warned that rising political intolerance and violence could plunge Kenya into a state of lawlessness.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the commission condemned acts of political violence and intolerance witnessed in Homa Bay, describing the developments as “unfortunate and worrying” and a threat to peace, security and democratic participation.

“The Commission reiterates that any Kenyan is allowed to hold political activities in any part of the country as long as they do not break the law. While these rights are fundamental, they must be exercised responsibly, without incitement to violence, hate speech, or disorder,” stated NCIC.

Reporting originally appeared via Citizen Digital. Read the full source for additional context.