Bishop Dr. Kepha Nyamweya Omae has been sworn in as Chairperson of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), alongside seven commissioners, in a ceremony presided over by Chief Justice Martha Koome at the Supreme Court of Kenya on Wednesday, 20 May 2026. The swearing-in marked the formal commencement of the Commission's fourth cohort of leadership, at a critical moment as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.

The incoming leadership assumes office with a clear mandate to promote national unity, combat hate speech, prevent ethnic and political tensions, and foster peaceful coexistence across the country. Speaking at the ceremony, Bishop Dr. Omae issued a firm caution against political violence and divisive rhetoric, underscoring that no political interest outweighs the value of human life and national peace. "No election, no office, no ambition is worth the blood of a Kenyan," he said.

He affirmed that the Commission would prioritise healing existing divisions and rebuilding public confidence in institutions mandated to safeguard national cohesion, noting that Kenya continues to grapple with ethnic, political and social fault lines that, if left unaddressed, pose a serious risk to peaceful coexistence.

The seven commissioners sworn in alongside the Chairperson are Ms. Irene Chepoisho Tulel, who was subsequently selected as Vice Chairperson, Dr. Samuel Mwachiro Mwawasi, Jackson Swadi Kedogo, Ms. Jerusha Mwathime Michael, Mr. Joseph Kingori Nguyo, Ms. Josphine Kirion Eragae, and Mr. Hassan Billow Ahmed. The new team begins a six-year term amid growing concern over rising political intolerance and early mobilisation ahead of the next election cycle, a period in which the Commission's role in anchoring national cohesion is more critical than ever.

Bishop Dr. Kepha Nyamweya Omae takes oath of office as the new NCIC chairman on 20^th May 2026.

Newly sworn in NCIC Chairman and Commissioners pose for a photo with Chief Justice Martha Koome outside the Supreme Court on 20^th May, 2026.

NCIC Chairman Bishop Dr. Kepha Wamae gives his inaugural speech at Supreme Court Building following his swearing in as the new NCIC Chairman on 20^th May, 2026. 

Chief Justice Martha Koome addressing the newly sworn in Commissioners at the Supreme Court on 20^th may 2026. 

Chairman, Commissioners and other guests follow through the proceedings of the swearing in ceremony at the Supreme Court on 20^th May 2026.