A man arrested/ FILE
Detectives have arrested a 32-year-old man over remarks the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said were intended to incite ethnic hatred, hostility and violence against Burundian nationals living and working in Kenya.
The DCI said the suspect was arrested by detectives from the Buruburu Directorate of Criminal Investigations office following remarks he allegedly made at Jacaranda Grounds in Kayole during a Bunge la Mwananchi event.
According to the DCI, the remarks were captured on video and later circulated widely on social media, prompting detectives to launch investigations.
The DCI said preliminary investigations indicated that the remarks allegedly targeted Burundian nationals residing in Kenya and involved in various economic activities, including employment.
“Detectives are examining the circumstances and intent behind the remarks as part of investigations into possible offences relating to hate speech and ethnic incitement,” the DCI said.
The suspect is expected to face a charge of hate speech under Section 13(1)(a), read together with Section 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act, the DCI said.
He is also expected to face any other charges that may arise from the ongoing investigations and is scheduled to be arraigned in court tomorrow, according to the DCI.
The DCI reminded members of the public that freedom of expression is constitutionally protected but said it does not extend to 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 DCI said.
The agency said targeting individuals or communities based on their nationality or ethnicity, particularly where conduct is intended to promote hatred, hostility or violence, would not be tolerated.
It also cautioned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands or engaging in acts that could undermine peace and public order.
The DCI said its detectives would continue monitoring public and online spaces for content and conduct that 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 urged the public to report information relating to hate speech, ethnic incitement or other criminal activity anonymously through the DCI’s Fichua Kwa DCI platform, toll-free hotline 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.