Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot has strongly criticized the National Cohesion and Integration Commission’s (NCIC) decision to summon musician Millicent Jerotich over her recent song ‘Arap Ruto‘.
In a statement posted on his X account on February 5, 2025, Cheruiyot dismissed the NCIC’s actions as part of a broader agenda, arguing that the summons goes beyond the commission’s regulatory oversight.
“You’d think this is an innocent move from a commission trying hard to do their job,” the senator wrote.
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Cheruiyot accused the commission of harbouring ulterior motives and claimed they were merely aiding a narrative.
“Don’t be deceived. It’s part of a larger scheme,” he added.
NCIC summons
The senator’s comments came in response to the NCIC’s summons of Jerotich due to her use of the term ‘Arap Ruto‘ in her latest song.
Released on January 23, 2025, the song has drawn scrutiny for its critical stance on government initiatives, such as the Social Health Insurance Fund and the new university funding model.
The commission argues that the terminology could potentially incite ethnic tensions among Kenyan communities.
“Pursuant to the above-mentioned mandate, the Commission is investigating the words used in your hit song, specifically ‘Arap Ruto,’ which are likely to incite feelings of ethnic contempt, hatred, and hostility, thereby affecting harmonious coexistence between different ethnic communities in Kenya,” the NCIC statement reads in part.
The NCIC’s investigation is being conducted under Sections 13(1)(a) and 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act, which address content that may promote ethnic discrimination or incitement.
“You are hereby required to appear at the National Cohesion and Integration Commission offices within Britam Towers, Upper Hill, 18th floor, on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 10:00 am to assist the commission with the ongoing investigations. Please be advised that failure to appear in person at the specified time and place is an offence as provided under Section 63(c) as read with Section 63(e) of the National Cohesion and Integration Act,” the NCIC stated in a notice dated January 29, 2025.
Millicent Jerotich gained instant fame with her song “Mali Safi Chito” in 2023, which quickly became a favourite at weddings and entertainment venues throughout the year.
