Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Buruburu have arrested a 32 year old man over remarks allegedly intended to incite ethnic hatred, hostility and violence against Burundian nationals living and working in Kenya.
The suspect, identified as Kevin Odiwuor Otieno, alias Engineer Kevin, was arrested over remarks he allegedly made during a Bunge la Mwananchi event at Jacaranda Grounds in Kayole.
According to the DCI, the remarks were captured on video and later circulated widely on social media, prompting detectives to launch investigations.“Preliminary investigations have established that the utterances were directed at Burundian nationals residing in Kenya and engaged in various economic activities, including employment,” the DCI said.
Detectives are examining the circumstances surrounding the remarks and the suspect’s intent as investigations continue into possible offences relating to hate speech and ethnic incitement.
The suspect is expected to be charged with hate speech contrary to Section 13(1)(a), as read with Section 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act.
Kevin Odiwuor Otieno, alias Engineer Kevin
PHOTO/DCI
The DCI said additional charges could be brought against the suspect depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigations. Otieno is scheduled to be arraigned in court on Wednesday.
The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny of statements made in public spaces and content shared online that could threaten peaceful coexistence among communities and nationalities living in Kenya.
The DCI reminded members of the public that freedom of expression is constitutionally protected but does not cover hate speech, ethnic incitement or advocacy of violence.
“Kenya is a diverse nation that is home to people from different ethnic communities and nationalities, including foreign nationals who reside and work in the country,” the agency said.
The DCI warned against targeting individuals or communities because of their nationality or ethnicity, particularly where such conduct is intended to promote hatred, hostility or violence.
“The targeting of individuals or communities on the basis of their nationality or ethnicity, particularly where such conduct is intended to promote hatred, hostility or violence, will not be tolerated,” it said.
The agency also cautioned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands or engaging in activities that could undermine peace and public order.
The DCI said its detectives would continue monitoring public and online spaces for content and conduct that could threaten national cohesion, public safety and peaceful coexistence.
“Those found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law, without fear or favour,” the agency said.
The DCI has urged members of the public to report information concerning hate speech, ethnic incitement and other criminal activities anonymously through its FichuaKwaDCI initiative.
Members of the public can report such information through the DCI toll free hotline 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.