The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has clarified that abusive language does not amount to hate speech.

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The clariufication comes at a time the commission has come under fire to probe President Uhuru Kenyatta over use of abusive language directed at governors.

According to chairman Francis Ole Kaparo, verbal exchanges between leaders would not be treated as hate speech unless a community in mentioned.

“Matusi sio hate speech. Unaweza ita Kaparo mpumbavu, hayo ni matusi lakini sema WaMaasai ni wapumbavu uone (abusive language does not amount to hate speech. You can say Kaparo is stupid and that is just an abuse but don't dare say the Maasais are stupid),” he stated.

Last week, President Uhuru Kenyatta was captured on camera calling Turkana governor Jospaht Nanok foolish and devil.

Over the weekend, nominated MP Oburu Odinga called on NCIC to prosecute President Uhuru Kenyatta.