By Robert Mutasi 
Muslim leaders in Uasin Gishu County have demanded a major shake-up within the Ministry of Interior and the country’s security organs, accusing them of laxity in dealing with cases of hate speech and political incitement.
Led by the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) North Rift Chairman Sheikh Abubakar Bini, together with religious leaders Mohammed Ali and Abdulkadir Mohammed, the clerics said the current political climate in the country requires firm and impartial action from security agencies.
Addressing the press in Eldoret on Tuesday, the leaders said security institutions have a constitutional duty to protect all Kenyans equally without favouring individuals based on their political influence or popularity.
“Security agencies have a responsibility to protect every Kenyan regardless of their political affiliation, popularity or position in society. The law must be applied equally and without fear or favour,” said Sheikh Abubakar Bini.
Bini warned that failure to act on early signs of incitement could plunge the country into unrest as the 2027 General Election approaches, noting that inflammatory utterances are already being witnessed at political rallies.
“We cannot wait until political incitement turns into violence before authorities act. The signs are already there, and the relevant institutions must take preventive action to protect the peace we enjoy,” he added.
On his part, Mohammed Ali expressed concern over how political gatherings are being managed, saying Kenyans are increasingly worried about selective application of the law.
“We are calling for professionalism and fairness in the management of political activities. Every Kenyan has a right to participate in politics peacefully without intimidation, violence or hate speech,” Ali said.
He called on political leaders to be mindful of their language, warning that reckless statements could divide communities along ethnic and political lines.
“Political leaders must understand that their words have consequences. They should use their platforms to unite Kenyans rather than create hatred and division,” he added.
Abdulkadir Mohammed, another religious leader, said public trust in security agencies can only be restored if the law is seen to apply to everyone, including powerful and politically connected individuals.
“There should be no sacred cows when it comes to the law. Whether someone is powerful, popular or politically connected, if they are required to answer questions before a lawful institution, they should do so,” Abdulkadir said.
The leaders also tasked the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to investigate and prosecute cases of incitement without political bias.
They pointed to recent violent incidents in Homa Bay County as a warning sign, urging security agencies to enhance preparedness ahead of heightened political activity across the country.
“What we have witnessed recently should be a wake-up call. We must strengthen our security institutions now and not wait for a crisis to occur before taking action,” Sheikh Bini emphasized.
The clerics further called for leadership changes in some security institutions, including the National Police Service, arguing that reforms would help rebuild public confidence.
They maintained that peace is a collective responsibility that requires commitment from the government, political class, religious leaders and ordinary citizens.
“Kenya belongs to all of us. We must protect our unity and peace by ensuring that the law is respected and enforced equally,” said Mohammed Ali.
The leaders urged security organs to operate professionally and independently as the country heads to the next polls, warning that unchecked incitement could erode national cohesion and stability.