Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has come under scrutiny after remarks about how people from different communities should benefit from government jobs sparked a fresh debate over tribalism and equal access to public opportunities.
Barasa made the remarks during a gathering in Sirisia Constituency, Bungoma County, on September 19, 2026. He spoke about people from Western Kenya holding senior government positions and urged leaders from the region to consider the interests of their communities.
He also gave an example involving job interviews, comparing how candidates from different parts of the country could allegedly be assessed during recruitment.
The comments have attracted attention because Kenya's Constitution requires public appointments to uphold principles including fairness, equality of opportunity and representation of Kenya's diverse communities.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has since summoned Barasa over the remarks. The commission said it is investigating the statements under provisions of the National Cohesion and Integration Act.
Barasa has been given an opportunity to appear before the commission on September 29, 2026, and respond to the allegations, present evidence and make representations before the commission reaches a determination.
The NCIC said its mandate includes promoting national unity and harmony while addressing negative ethnicity, racism, religious intolerance and hate speech.
The controversy has once again brought the issue of ethnicity and access to government employment into public discussion.
Debate over fair representation in public institutions has remained a recurring issue in Kenya, particularly during periods of political competition.
The NCIC inquiry is expected to provide Barasa with an opportunity to explain the context of his remarks before the commission decides on the matter.