Safaricom Under Fire as Leading Telco Faces Allegations During Kenyan Protests

Kenya finds itself amidst a new wave of protests this week, sparked by a controversial finance bill perceived to exacerbate the nation’s economic hardships. The demonstrations have led to tragic consequences, with Reuters reporting at least 13 fatalities after police opened fire on protestors on Tuesday. Amidst the turmoil, a nationwide internet disruption has raised eyebrows and fueled public outrage.

The disruptions have not only hampered communications within Kenya but have also impacted neighboring nations. Safaricom, Kenya’s leading telecommunications giant, has become a focal point of intense scrutiny and allegations related to service outages and disappearances during this critical period.

Human rights groups have documented alleged abductions of protestors, adding to the tension and suspicion surrounding the disruptions. Safaricom, a key player in the country’s digital infrastructure, has come under fire for its role, with many questioning the timing and nature of the outages.

Despite the Kenyan government’s denial of any involvement, NetBlocks, an internet rights watchdog, has cast doubt on these claims. The watchdog has pointed out the suspicious timing of the outage, coinciding precisely with the ongoing protests. According to NetBlocks, the severity of the disruption exceeds that of typical subsea cable cuts, suggesting the possibility of “unscheduled maintenance.”

As protests continue to escalate, the internet disruptions have only added to the chaos, hindering communication and coordination efforts among demonstrators and amplifying the public’s frustration. The allegations against Safaricom have further ignited debates on the role of corporate responsibility and transparency during times of political unrest.

The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further developments as both local and international communities keep a close watch on Kenya. The interplay between government actions, corporate behavior, and public response during these protests will undoubtedly shape the narrative in the coming days. Safaricom, along with other stakeholders, faces mounting pressure to address the allegations and restore public trust amidst this turbulent period.