NAIROBI, Kenya – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen is facing mounting criticism after suggesting that Gen Z’s online activism is fueled by mental health struggles arising from drug and alcohol abuse.
His comments, made during a church service in Meru on Sunday, have sparked backlash from civil society groups, mental health advocates, and young Kenyans, who accuse him of stigmatizing mental illness and deflecting from the real issues driving youth activism.
Murkomen’s remarks came amid growing government unease over the online-driven “Ruto Must Go” campaign, which has gained traction among young Kenyans frustrated by economic hardships, corruption, and perceived government failures.
Speaking at the African Inland Church (AIC) in Makutano, he cautioned youth against what he termed as the misuse of social media, warning that political agitation could destabilize the country.
“Most of these young people posting hateful messages on social media are battling mental health challenges brought on by drug abuse and alcohol abuse,” Murkomen claimed, urging parents to instill discipline in their children.
The statement was swiftly condemned by Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi, a civil society group advocating for mental health awareness, which termed it misleading and harmful.
“We are deeply concerned by the recent remarks made by the Cabinet Secretary. His statement not only misrepresents the reality of mental health but also worsens the stigma faced by those seeking help,” said the organisation’s CEO, Kawive Wambua.
Mental health experts argue that such rhetoric trivializes serious conditions and shifts attention away from systemic issues affecting young people, including high unemployment, economic inequality, and poor governance.
Critics also point out that the government’s own policies have failed to address mental health adequately, with budget allocations for the sector remaining at a paltry 0.04% of the total health budget.
Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi has called on Murkomen to issue an unreserved apology and urged the government to take urgent steps to improve mental health services.
The group is demanding increased funding—raising the allocation to at least 5% in line with World Health Organization recommendations—alongside full implementation of the Kenya Mental Health Policy (2015-2030).
The controversy adds to the ongoing debate about the state’s response to youth-driven political discourse, particularly in digital spaces.
Government officials, including Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri and National Intelligence Service Director General Noordin Haji, have warned against online activism, arguing that it could endanger national stability.
However, many young Kenyans see these warnings as attempts to silence dissent rather than address the grievances fueling the online campaigns.
