Kenyan social media users warned

Kenyan social media users have been warned against making statements that may be a threat to security. Users were informed that security forces will arrest those sharing messages or information deemed inflammatory.  The government confirmed that there have been some arrested for “abusing” the platforms and spreading hatred and inflammatory messages.

The warning by Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi comes on the heels of running battles between rioters and police after President Uhuru Kenyatta was declared winner of last Tuesday’s election with 54.27 percent of the vote. The riots took place in Kisumu and Kibera counties, two major strongholds of Raila Odinga, the opposition leader who received 44.74 percent.

Matiangi said that some criminal elements have infiltrated the demonstrations and are looting and destroying property. He warned that the government would not tolerate any looting, destruction of property or threat to life.

“Peaceful protesting will always be protected in accordance to the existing laws. Therefore, looters are not protesters by any stretch of imagination. They are just criminals,” said Matiangi.

“Media should always conduct itself lawfully and truthfully,” noted Matiang’i. “There has been an increase in number of inflammatory and inciting messages on Social Media. Remember that we have a law governing the use of Social Media,” said Matiangi.

Matiang’i says the government is committed to maintaining law and order and protecting the lives of its citizenry.

Staff Writer