ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has firmly denied any plans to shut down social media in Kenya, refuting recent reports that suggested the government may regulate or switch off platforms. Speaking during a Citizen TV interview on Monday night, Kabogo reassured the public that such discussions were not on the table and expressed his commitment to upholding the freedom of expression.
“The discussion of switching off is not on the table at all. It is not there,” Kabogo stated, emphasizing that he could not envision a scenario where social media would be shut down. This statement came in response to media reports that had implied Kabogo was advocating for a crackdown on online platforms. He sought to clarify his stance, stressing that while he supported freedom of speech, it should not come at the expense of hurting or abusing others.
Kabogo’s comments also came during his vetting in the National Assembly, where he laid out his vision for Kenya’s ICT sector. He emphasized the importance of creating an open and responsible digital environment, where Kenyans can freely express their opinions without resorting to insults or harmful content. “I want Kenyans to be able to express themselves, but expressing yourself doesn’t mean you must be insulting or abusive,” he explained.
The CS also discussed plans to establish a platform for direct engagement with the public on matters related to ICT, where citizens can voice their concerns and ideas. He expressed hope for a respectful and productive conversation on the platform, warning that individuals who violate the expected decorum should be removed from the discussions.
Kabogo further addressed the issue of social media companies operating in Kenya, reiterating the need for these platforms to have local offices in the country. This, he explained, would facilitate direct communication with platform owners and ensure that there is a point of contact for critical discussions regarding social media use. Kabogo emphasized the responsibility of social media companies in managing their platforms, particularly in relation to the spread of harmful or misleading information.
“We need to tell the people who own these platforms to be responsible,” Kabogo said. “We’ve known that information can cause war, and we must ensure that the information shared is credible, whether good or bad.”
In conclusion, Kabogo’s remarks underscore the government’s focus on striking a balance between preserving freedom of expression and ensuring responsible use of social media in Kenya. He reassured the public that the government’s approach would be focused on fostering an environment where meaningful and respectful conversations can thrive.
