Activist Raises Alarm Over Alleged Political Manipulation and Disinformation Ahead of Kenya’s General Election

An Eldoret-based human rights activist, Kipkorir Ngetich, has issued a strong warning over what he describes as an emerging and dangerous trend of politically motivated incidents, disinformation, and coordinated propaganda within Kenya’s political space as the country approaches the next general election.

In an extensive statement released on Monday, Ngetich expressed concern that recent developments signal a shift toward what he termed “organized political manipulation,” where incidents are allegedly staged or exaggerated to shape public opinion, attract sympathy, and discredit opponents.

He pointed to the alleged tear gas incident at a Linda Mwananchi rally in Kakamega as one of the events that raised questions, suggesting that the circumstances surrounding it warrant deeper scrutiny by investigative authorities. He also referenced the controversial abduction claims involving Raphael Tuju, describing the situation as “suspicious and questionable,” and calling for a transparent and comprehensive inquiry.

According to Ngetich, these incidents are not isolated but may reflect a broader, well-coordinated strategy aimed at influencing political narratives and escalating tensions in the country.

“What we are witnessing is a new wave of organized political activity disguised as democratic expression. If left unchecked, it could push the country toward instability,” he said.

The activist alleged that some political actors are increasingly resorting to sophisticated tactics such as fabricating events, spreading misleading information, and amplifying propaganda through both traditional and digital media platforms. He warned that such actions risk undermining democratic institutions and eroding public trust.

Ngetich further claimed that sections of mainstream media and social media networks have, knowingly or unknowingly, contributed to the spread of what he termed “scripted narratives,” which he said are designed to provoke division, incite emotions, and create confusion among citizens.

He noted that the rapid growth of digital platforms has made it easier for coordinated misinformation campaigns to thrive, often with significant consequences for individuals and communities.

“Many leaders, families, and private citizens have suffered immensely from organized smear campaigns, blackmail, and propaganda spread online. This is no longer just politics—it is a systemic abuse of communication channels,” he added.

In his statement, Ngetich called on the government to take urgent and decisive action to address the situation before it escalates further. Among his recommendations were the establishment of specialized investigative units within law enforcement agencies to monitor and dismantle organized disinformation networks and politically motivated criminal activities.

He also urged authorities to identify and prosecute the financiers, organizers, and sponsors behind such alleged operations, arguing that accountability at all levels is necessary to deter future misconduct.

Additionally, Ngetich highlighted what he يرى as gaps in Kenya’s existing cybercrime laws, saying that loopholes continue to allow individuals and groups to spread incitement, tribal rhetoric, and false information with limited consequences.

“Time has come for the government to adopt stronger legal and enforcement frameworks to deal with sponsored misinformation and digital incitement. The current system is not sufficient to address the evolving nature of these threats,” he said.

At the same time, he commended the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), led by Mohamed Amin, for its swift response in handling recent high-profile cases. However, he emphasized that more needs to be done to uncover the broader networks behind such incidents.

He called on investigators not only to address individual cases but also to pursue those allegedly responsible for planning and coordinating such acts.

Political analysts note that Kenya’s political climate often becomes increasingly polarized in the run-up to general elections, with heightened rhetoric, public demonstrations, and intensified media activity. In this context, concerns about misinformation, political incitement, and electoral integrity have become more pronounced.

Ngetich warned that continued misuse of democratic freedoms—particularly the right to free expression—could have unintended consequences if exploited irresponsibly.

“Democracy must not be used as a cover for deceit, division, and incitement. There is a growing trend where propaganda and smear campaigns are taking center stage, pushing narratives that fuel hate and tension,” he said.

He cautioned that if such trends persist, there is a risk that fabricated or exaggerated incidents could eventually escalate into real acts of violence, further destabilizing the country.

“If this pattern continues, we may reach a point where staged incidents evolve into real tragedies, with devastating consequences for the nation,” he warned.

The activist concluded by urging all stakeholders—including political leaders, government institutions, media organizations, and citizens—to exercise responsibility and restraint during the election period.

He called for a renewed commitment to truth, accountability, and peaceful political engagement, emphasizing that safeguarding national unity must remain a top priority.

“Kenya has come too far to be dragged into chaos by manipulation and propaganda. It is the responsibility of every stakeholder to ensure that the country remains peaceful, united, and focused on democratic progress,” he said.