Former National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) Vice Chairperson Wambui Nyutu has come out strongly against her removal from office, terming the decision illegal, unjust, and politically driven.

In a statement issued Wednesday, Nyutu said she was blindsided by the commission’s announcement, having learned of her dismissal through a press release issued on July 22, 2025. She accused the commission of denying her due process, saying no notice or charges were ever communicated to her ahead of the decision.

“It is with utter shock and dismay that I have learnt through the media of the Commission’s repressive, and unfortunate ‘unanimous’ decision to relieve me of my duties,” she stated.

Nyutu condemned the move as a flagrant violation of her constitutional rights, accusing the NCIC of ignoring basic principles of fairness, administrative justice, and the rule of law.

She claimed the commission’s actions were not only unlawful but also part of a politically orchestrated agenda meant to silence dissenting voices.

“We live in a democratic society with a progressive Constitution that seeks to protect the rights of all its citizens. NCIC, by its very nature, should serve as a unifying body not a political tool,” Nyutu said.

In a defiant tone, she vowed not to be cowed, saying her resolve remains unbroken.

“The storms have raged, the nights grown long, yet I stand unshaken by the weight of injustice, steady as the law I believe in. I shall overcome,” she declared.

But the NCIC has defended its decision, citing Nyutu’s continued involvement in partisan political activity, which it says compromised the neutrality expected of commissioners. In a statement issued Tuesday by Chairperson Rev. Dr. Samuel Kobia following a special sitting, the commission announced her immediate removal as vice chair.

“The Commission unanimously resolved to relieve Ms. Nyutu of her role… Her conduct had become untenable and incompatible with the impartiality required of all commissioners,” said Kobia.

The commission also resolved to initiate formal proceedings to have her removed entirely from the NCIC, invoking Section 23 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act.

Kobia said Nyutu had violated her oath of office by participating in political meetings and making partisan remarks, despite earlier warnings and commitments to remain neutral. The commission had previously convened three special sessions in January and February 2025 to address concerns over her conduct.

In a swift transition, NCIC unanimously elected Dr. Dorcas Kedogo as the new Vice Chairperson, effective immediately.

The commission further distanced itself from Nyutu’s public statements, clarifying that any political pronouncements she may have made were personal and did not reflect the views or position of the NCIC.