Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has strongly criticized the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over its decision to summon musician Millicent Jerotich Kipkorir, popularly known for her hit song ‘Mali Safi Chito.’
On February 5, 2025, NCIC announced via a social media post that it had summoned Jerotich, also referred to as Marakwet Daughter, 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.
In response, Sudi issued a fiery statement on his X account on February 5, 2025, accusing NCIC of misplacing its priorities and unfairly targeting the Marakwet-born artist.
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He argued that there are more pressing issues for the commission to address instead of focusing on purportedly divisive lyrics.
“NCIC, leave Marakwet Daughter alone! I’ve got a list of about 50 names that would be a much better use of your time instead of this nonsense. This lady has a chance ya kueleweka, achaneni naye” Sudi wrote.
Ulterior motives
His remarks come shortly after Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot also condemned the NCIC for what he termed as an unnecessary attempt to stifle artistic expression.
In a statement posted on his X account on February 5, 2025, Cheruiyot dismissed the NCIC’s actions as part of a broader agenda, asserting that the summons exceeded the commission’s regulatory role.
“You’d think this is an innocent move from a commission trying hard to do their job,” the senator wrote.
Cheruiyot accused the commission of harbouring ulterior motives claiming they were contributing to a specific narrative.
“Don’t be deceived. It’s part of a larger scheme,” he added.
NCIC summons
The NCIC had earlier summoned Jerotich to explain the lyrics of her song, arguing 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.
