Hate speech case against MP Salasya referred to NCIC

The move follows a request by State Prosecutor Virginia Kariuki from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), who asked the court to allow the Commission to assess the matter before determining the next steps.

“We are seeking a further mention in two months to confirm whether the Commission has finalized this matter,” Kariuki told the court.

Senior Resident Magistrate Paul Mutai, who presided over the case, questioned whether the referral to NCIC might create a parallel process.

In response, the prosecution explained that NCIC’s involvement would be limited to evaluating the case and advising the DPP, rather than determining guilt or innocence.

“The offence in question involves alleged incitement of the public. The Commission’s role is advisory and not judicial,” the prosecutor clarified.

The magistrate further queried why NCIC had not been engaged earlier in the process before Salasya was charged.

The prosecutor maintained that while the DPP and NCIC function independently, they work in collaboration, particularly in cases relating to hate speech and national cohesion.

Magistrate Mutai urged the DPP to ensure that all procedural steps are taken before arraigning accused persons in such matters.

“The DPP should ensure all avenues are explored before arraigning an accused person,” he said.

The court granted the application and fixed the case for mention on November 11, 2025, to receive an update on NCIC’s findings. Should there be no progress by then, the matter will proceed to hearing.

MP Salasya was charged in May 19 ,2025 with hate speech, accused of making inflammatory social media remarks targeting members of a specific community.