The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula, has called on Kenyans to exercise responsibility when using social media, highlighting its potential to both unite and divide society. Speaking against a backdrop of increasing misuse of social platforms, Wetangula emphasized the importance of maintaining respect and avoiding harm, especially when addressing sensitive issues or individuals in leadership.
Acknowledging the transformative power of social media, Wetangula noted its role in enhancing communication, raising awareness, and even mobilizing resources. “Social media is a good medium of communication. But it is also a bad medium if we abuse it,” he remarked, underscoring the dual nature of the technology.
The Speaker condemned the practice of using social media to harm others, particularly through unfounded attacks or hateful messages. He warned that wishing harm or death upon anyone constitutes a criminal offense under Kenyan law. Wetangula also expressed concern about the impact of social media misuse on societal cohesion, urging users to avoid fostering divisions along dangerous lines.
“We want to urge every Kenyan to be responsible. To wish anybody death or harm, is a crime under our law,” he stated firmly.
Wetangula lauded Kenyans who use social platforms constructively, such as for community-building initiatives, fundraising, or networking. However, he warned that any behavior fostering hatred, despondency, or moral decay could have severe legal and societal consequences.
The Speaker pointed to global measures to curb social media misuse, citing Australia’s recent legislation prohibiting children under 16 from accessing social media. While Kenya has not taken similar steps, Wetangula suggested the country could draw lessons from such actions. “Recently, Australia passed a law to prohibit children under 16 from accessing social media to protect their morals and shield them from social perverts, sexual predators, and all those hell-bent on corrupting society,” he noted.
Wetangula concluded by reiterating that freedom of expression is enshrined in Kenya’s laws but cautioned against abusing this right. He appealed to Kenyans to use social media responsibly, promoting unity and constructive dialogue while respecting the rights and safety of others.
“Those who are using social media, communicate, raise funds, seduce each other, but stop causing despondency, hatred, and dividing our society on lines that can be dangerous for our country,” he advised.
The Speaker’s remarks come amid growing calls for the government and the public to address the ethical challenges posed by the digital age.
