NAIROBI, Kenya- In the digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for communication, advocacy, and connection.
However, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula is sounding the alarm on the darker side of this modern marvel.
Addressing concerns over misuse, the Speaker emphasized the need for responsible online behavior, reminding Kenyans of the legal and moral implications of their digital actions.
Wetangula began by acknowledging the undeniable benefits of social media, from bridging communication gaps to amplifying voices on pressing societal issues.
“Social media is a good medium of communication,” he noted, but quickly added a caveat: “It is also a bad medium if we abuse it.”
The Speaker urged Kenyans to harness the platform for positive purposes, such as raising awareness, supporting charitable causes, or fostering dialogue.
At the same time, he expressed concern over its misuse to spread hatred or unjustly target individuals, particularly those in leadership roles.
He cautioned that such actions could lead to serious legal repercussions, stressing, “To wish anybody death or harm is a crime under our law.”
Kenya, like many nations, prides itself on free speech, but Wetangula warned that this right comes with boundaries. He reminded citizens that freedom of expression should not be an excuse for harmful or divisive content.
Drawing on a global perspective, he referenced Australia’s recent legislation prohibiting children under 16 from accessing social media to protect them from predators and immoral influences.
While Kenya has not adopted similar measures, Wetangula urged individuals to self-regulate, highlighting the collective responsibility to prevent despondency and societal division.
“We want to urge every Kenyan to be responsible,” he emphasized, adding a touch of humor: “Use social media to communicate, raise funds, or even seduce each other—but stop causing hatred and dividing our society.”
As social media continues to shape public discourse, the Speaker’s call for responsible use resonates with growing global concerns about the platform’s potential for harm.
Whether through spreading misinformation or fueling online harassment, misuse can undermine societal harmony and erode trust.
Wetangula reminds Kenyans to embrace the privilege of free speech responsibly and ensure that social media remains a tool for connection, not division.
