A new leadership team has been proposed for the National Cohesion and Integration Commission after President William Ruto nominated Bishop Kepha Nyamweya Omae as chairperson and forwarded the names to Parliament for approval.
The announcement, made on Friday, April 10 by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, confirmed that seven other individuals have been picked to serve as commissioners. The National Assembly has already been notified and is expected to begin the vetting process before making a decision on the appointments.
“His Excellency the President has this morning caused nominations to the ranks of the membership of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC).
These nominations are made in accordance with the recommendations of the Selection Panel appointed to recruit and recommend suitable candidates for appointment to the Commission,” the letter read in part.
Adding that, “In light of the Commission’s consequential mandate to foster national cohesion and unity as well as advance peaceful coexistence by confronting ethnic discrimination and hate speech, the Head of State and Government urges the National Assembly to accord these nominations consideration on a priority basis.”
The move places the spotlight on the commission at a time when the political environment is heating up ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders increasingly engaging in sharp public exchanges. The NCIC is expected to step in to address rising concerns over divisive remarks and maintain national harmony.
Bishop Nyamweya serves at Liberty Christian Center and is part of the Redeemed Gospel Church Inc, where he holds the role of presiding bishop.
The list of nominees for membership includes Josphine Kirion Eragae, Joseph K. Nguyo, Jackson Swadi Kedogo, Samuel Mwachiro Mwawasi, Irene Chepoisho Tulel, Hassan Billow Ahmed, and Jerusah Mwaathime Michael. They will assume office once they receive parliamentary approval.
Eragae brings experience from both county and national government, having served as County Executive Committee Member for Education and Sports in Isiolo County. In 2025, she was appointed Director of the International Development Partnership Coordination Unit in the Office of the Deputy President, where she coordinated engagement with development partners.
If cleared, the incoming commissioners will take over from the team led by Reverend Samuel Kobia, whose term came to an end on November 17, 2025, after serving for six years since November 2019.
The commission is mandated to promote unity, ensure fairness in opportunities, and support peaceful coexistence across the country’s diverse communities.