Kenyan musician Millicent Jerotich Kipkorir, popularly known as Marakwet Daughter, has found herself at the centre of controversy after being summoned by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over her song “Arap Rutto”.
In a letter addressed to the musician, the commission claims that the words used in the song could “incite feelings of ethnic contempt.”
NCIC’s Summons
In the formal notice, the NCIC referenced its legal mandate under the National Cohesion and Integration Act No. 12 of 2008, which aims to promote national unity and harmony.
The commission stated:
“The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) is established by an Act of Parliament, the National Cohesion and Integration Act No. 12 of 2008 and has a mandate to promote national unity and harmony by promoting peaceful co-existence between persons of the different ethnic and communities of Kenya, particularly by guarding against negative ethnicity, racism and religious intolerance.
“The scope of the Commission’s mandate is provided under Section 25 of the Act.
“Pursuant to the above-mentioned mandate, the Commission is investigating the words used in your hit song to wit; ‘Arap Ruto’.
“Words which are likely to incite feelings of ethnic contempt, hatred, hostility and affect harmonious coexistence between different ethnic communities in Kenya, contrary to Section 13(1)(a) and Section 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act.
“Take Notice that you are hereby required to appear at the National Cohesion and Integration Commission offices within Britam Towers Upper Hill 18th Floor.”
Oscar Sudi weighs in
However, Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi has strongly defended Marakwet Daughter, dismissing the NCIC’s actions as unnecessary.
“NCIC, leave Marakwet Daughter alone!” he said. “I’ve got 50 names that would be a much better use of your time instead of this nonsense.”
Public Reactions
The move by NCIC as well as Hon. Sudi’s reaction to the matter has sparked debate on social media, with supporters of Marakwet Daughter arguing that the summons infringe on artistic freedom, while others believe the NCIC is justified in its mandate to prevent potential ethnic tensions.
The Majority Leader of the Senate also added his thoughts to the matter saying the summons were not innocent.
“You’d think this is an innocent move from a commission trying hard to do their job. Don’t be deceived,” he said. “The tribalists in the commission are simply aiding a narrative. Part of the larger scheme.”
Meanwhile on YouTube, the song at the centre of the debate, “Arap Rutto”, released less than two weeks ago, continues to gain momentum. It is currently trending at number 21 with 175K views and counting.
