Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has taken a swipe at the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), accusing it of partisan conduct in handling political rhetoric.

In a strongly worded post shared on his X account on Thursday, July 17, 2025, Sifuna alleged that the NCIC has failed to carry out its mandate impartially, often ignoring inflammatory remarks by leaders allied to the ruling coalition while quickly cracking down on opposition figures for similar statements.

“Their playbook is predictable,” Sifuna wrote. “Government-allied politicians make divisive comments and NCIC stays silent. But the moment an opposition leader says anything remotely controversial, they jump in to pretend they're calling out both sides.”

His remarks echo growing concerns from opposition circles over what they perceive as weaponization of independent institutions to silence dissent while shielding those close to power.

He further mocked the commission’s selective approach, saying he knows exactly what to say to be summoned alongside MPs William Kamket, Oscar Sudi, and Nelson Koech, figures often associated with contentious remarks.

Sifuna’s criticism comes amid heightened scrutiny of NCIC’s effectiveness in fostering national cohesion and ensuring equal treatment across the political divide.

The commission, established to combat ethnic and political discrimination, has recently faced backlash over alleged double standards and loss of credibility.

In contrast, Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has defended the commission, highlighting its key role in safeguarding peace and unity across the country.

Appearing on Citizen TV the same day, Maanzo emphasized that the NCIC works hand in hand with major security organs, including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, refuting claims that it operates in isolation.

“You can’t claim they’re unsupported,” he said. “They collaborate with all the relevant institutions to carry out their mandate.”

As political tensions rise ahead of the next general election, the NCIC’s actions and inaction will likely continue to attract both criticism and defense, with its role in safeguarding cohesion under increasing public scrutiny.