DPP Tobiko puts politicians on notice over incitement

The Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko has warned politicians against preaching incitement and hate speech during rallies saying his office will prosecute individuals stoking animosity.

Mr Tobiko lamented that the political class had put the country in an election mood by engaging in premature campaigns.

He said recent rallies had been characterised by "reckless and inflammatory utterances by politicians bordering on incitement and hate speech" and he would take swift action.

"On behalf of the ODPP, I would like to send a strong signal that the full force of the law will be applied against any groups or individuals who are bent on causing hatred and disharmony in the country," said Mr Tobiko during a stakeholders validation workshop for the ODPP strategic plan 2011-2015 at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre, Nairobi Friday evening.

The DPP said his office will ensure that the next elections are held in a conducive atmosphere and Kenyans will freely exercise their democratic right.

"As part of the law enforcement agencies, the ODPP shall discharge its mandate to ensure that the next general elections are free and fair, and that those who attempt to benefit by inciting the public are dealt with swiftly and firmly in accordance with the law," he warned.

Politicians have been crisscrossing the country holding rallies as they drum up support for their respective parties in preparation for the next elections.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set March 4, 2013 as the date when the General Election will be held.

However, the IEBC announcement proved divisive with politicians taking different positions.

Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Narc-Kenya leader Martha Karua are pushing for December polls arguing that a March election will extend the term of the current Parliament beyond its five-year tenure.

Conversely, President Kibaki and a host of Cabinet ministers prefer elections in 2013 saying the IEBC needs time to conduct a free and fair poll.