The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has appealed for more funding from the national government to help it effectively execute its mandate ahead of the 2017 general election.
NCIC chair Francis Ole Kaparo has stated that insufficient budget allocation is hampering the commission's operations especially in taming hate speech.
Kaparo specified that the commission is in need of more staff but the challenge of inadequate funds was proving to be an obstacle in hiring.
He said that the commission had requested for Sh900 Million from the National Treasury this financial Year (2016-2017) but was only allocated Sh300 Million.
“We are requesting the National Treasury to allocate us more funds so that we can initiate more cohesion and integration programs and campaigns ahead of 2017 election,” said Kaparo.
However, Kaparo affirmed that NCIC is ready to ensure peace and integration ahead of polls.
The former National Assembly Speaker added that the commission has employed cyber crime experts to monitor social media platforms ahead in regards to the next elections.
He further warned that NCIC will not tolerate hate mongering especially among Kenyans and politicians on social media.
The Kaparo-led commission has been on the spot recently with a section of opposition leaders calling for its disbandment over claims that it has failed to execute its mandate.
Kaparo was speaking when he appeared before the joint parliamentary committee on IEBC reforms.