The reason are we witnessing an increase in cases of hate speech and incitement to violence is that NCIC has been behaving like a toothless bulldog that doesn't act on offenders.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), led by former National Assembly speaker Francis Ole Kaparo, needs to act very tough on hate speech cases and send out a strong message to people who are keen to see the country burn. This is the only way to deter people from the reckless talk we have been treated to on a regular basis.
The constitutional body cannot continue sitting and watching the hate mongers run wild with their loose tongues. There is a lot at stake. The memories of the damage incitement has caused in the recent years are still fresh in the minds of Kenyans. The people don't want to see a repeat of that.
In recent years, NCIC has done little to punish those found inciting people against fellow Kenyans or spreading hate messages. Had the commission behaved differently, no person would be daring enough to commit the offence so openly.
And now that Kenyans have roundly condemned newly released distasteful song 'IKamba', which has hate messages against members of the Kamba community, Mr Kaparo's team must act accordingly and discourage such behaviour. Ongoing investigations must be concluded quickly and justice be seen to be done.
Just days ago, NCIC did very little when Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu allegedly incited her constituents to set on fire vehicles that were carrying charcoal from her county. That lame decision is what inspired the musicians to compose the song as a reaction to the incitement to violence witnessed in Kambaland.
The time has come for Mr Kaparo and his team to crack the whip on anyone who threatens peace, regardless of their tribe, race, standing in society, background etc. This country is too important to the millions of people.