‘The level of hate and violence on digital platforms is disconcerting’ – Ezekiel Mutua

Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ezekiel Mutua has expressed his disappointment over the current state of digital interactions in Kenya.

In a statement shared via his X account on Monday, January 20, 2025, Mutua highlighted the rising tension and negativity that have taken over online spaces.

“Young people cannot resist bad governance and injustice using the same dirty methods used by the older politicians and those in power. It’s a shame to see youthful bloggers being pitted against each other. The level of hate and violence on digital platforms is disconcerting. Young people are being used to pull each other down,” Mutua said.

Mutua further pointed out that this conflict on digital platforms is creating a dangerous environment where constructive dialogue is overshadowed by hate and hostility. He urged young leaders to unite and work towards change in a non-violent way.

“How I wish this critical segment of our society could know the power they wield and support one another to champion change in a non-violent way like Dr. Martin Luther King did. This was my message to the young leaders during the Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association meeting to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr. Day at Parliament Building today,” Mutua stated.

Young people cannot resist bad governance and injustice using the same dirty methods used by the older politicians and those in power. It's a shame to see youthful bloggers being pitted against each other. The level of hate and violence on digital platforms is disconcerting.…

— Dr. Ezekiel Mutua, MBS (@EzekielMutua) January 20, 2025

Kenya is currently experiencing political tension, with a rise in online hate speech and political confrontations. This has been fueled by anti-government protests by the youth and reports of abductions of vocal government critics. As a result, both the public and the political class are exchanging jabs online, deepening the political divide.

Gospel artist Daddy Owen also voiced his concerns about the current state of the nation, pointing out the rise in divisive politics, online conflicts, and abductions.

In a statement shared on his X account on Sunday, January 19, 2025, the singer cautioned that these issues pose a serious threat to the country’s unity and stability.

“As a nation, we are dangerously flying too close to the sun. The re-emergence of regional sects, divisive online sentiments against Somalis, abductions, & relentless politicking are pushing Kenya into a perilous state, threatening the stability & unity of this great nation,” he said.

Misuse of internet

On January 12, 2025, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen threatened legal action against individuals, especially youths, who use social media to intimidate or bully others.

In discussing the impact of online harassment, Murkomen painted a picture of the harm it causes.

“I want to ask this question to every parent, church leader, and politician who defends this bad behaviour. If your child goes to school and another student posts a picture of his face in a coffin photo, don’t you think that is a threat? He is essentially saying, ‘I will kill you.’” He described such actions as a threat to the nation’s stability and urged stakeholders to support the government in restoring order.

“If we do not do that, we will not have a country. We want to bring order to our country,” the CS emphasized.

Murkomen also called on religious and political leaders to support President William Ruto in promoting discipline and decency in online spaces.

“We want the church and politicians to support our President in his effort to bring order to the country,” he stated.

Murkomen’s remarks addressed a section of social media users who have recently been sharing AI-generated images of senior government officials, including President Ruto, depicted as deceased. Additionally, others have created satirical cartoons portraying politicians in various scenarios.