NAIROBI – The landscape of political discourse in Kenya is undergoing a seismic shift.
Social media platforms, often run by self-styled content creators, are rapidly overshadowing traditional media outlets that have long adhered to journalistic ethics.
While diverse voices are crucial for democracy, the unchecked spread of sensationalism on these platforms poses a grave risk to national stability.
Recent events exemplify this troubling trend. A striking case involved an interview with the impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who used a popular social media platform to make alarming claims about the potential for violence in the upcoming 2027 elections.
He claimed that if the 2027 elections are manipulated by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission(IEBC), It will make 2007/2008 Post-election violence look like a ” Christmas Party.”
Such incendiary rhetoric, presented without scrutiny or fact-checking, raises serious concerns about the integrity of these platforms.
Unlike traditional media, which typically employs rigorous editorial standards, many social media channels prioritize sensational content to attract views and advertising revenue.
Politicians and entertainers alike exploit this environment to amplify their messages, often without regard for truth and accountability.
This creates a dangerous atmosphere where inflammatory statements can go viral, inciting fear and division among the populace.
The remarks of the former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua are particularly concerning.
While he remains a significant grassroots mobilizer, his narrative lacks substantive policy proposals and instead relies on divisive rhetoric aimed at undermining the current government.
In this context, it’s critical to ask: what responsibility do these platforms bear for allowing such rhetoric to proliferate unchecked?
The Kenyan government must take decisive action to address this issue.
Drawing inspiration from countries like Ethiopia, which closely regulate their internet providers and promote responsible media practices. Kenya could develop a framework that balances freedom of speech with social responsibility.
The scheme should not stifle dissent. It rather must ensure that public discourse is rooted in factual information.
Politicians often operate on a formula of destruction: if they cannot achieve their goals, they may resort to inflammatory rhetoric that jeopardizes the collective well-being of the nation.
The government needs to enforce accountability for those who exploit social media to spread chaos and misinformation.
After all, the stability of the country must take precedence over individual ambitions.
As we navigate this complex digital landscape, it is essential for both the government and responsible media outlets to step up.
We must ensure that the public discourse is informed, respectful, and conducive to the democratic values we hold dear. The integrity of our nation depends on it.
