Natembeya Allies Demand NCIC Crackdown on Alleged Online Propaganda Network as Political Temperatures Rise in Trans Nzoia

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and other relevant state agencies have been urged to take decisive action against individuals accused of spreading propaganda, misinformation, and hate speech targeting Trans Nzoia Governor Dr. George Natembeya and members of his administration.

Governor Natembeya's aide, Dickson Wamocho, has called on NCIC to investigate and prosecute several individuals allegedly linked to influential political offices, claiming they are coordinating online campaigns aimed at tarnishing the governor's reputation and escalating political tensions in the county.

Speaking amid growing political rivalry in Trans Nzoia, Wamocho alleged that some bloggers and social media operators associated with prominent political figures have been actively disseminating false information and divisive narratives against the county leadership.

He argued that NCIC must demonstrate that political connections and social status do not place anyone above the law when it comes to spreading misinformation and inflammatory content.

"Anyone found violating the law should face appropriate punitive and corrective measures. Political influence should not provide immunity to those engaging in misinformation and hate speech," Wamocho said.

The governor's aide further accused certain political leaders of engaging in conduct that undermines parliamentary decorum, alleging that some legislators have publicly discussed individuals who are not members of Parliament while recording and circulating such discussions online.

According to Wamocho, some politicians eyeing the Trans Nzoia gubernatorial seat have resorted to what he described as "shadow boxing" and politically motivated attacks while allegedly using their proximity to the national government to target leaders with differing political views.

He challenged NCIC to intensify monitoring of social media platforms and online forums to identify those responsible for promoting divisive content and disinformation.

"Those advancing misinformation on social media and openly driving divisive narratives must be stopped from weaponizing digital platforms against other leaders, especially the Governor of Trans Nzoia," he stated.

Wamocho further proposed the development of a comprehensive National Code of Practice on Disinformation and Hate Speech, to be formulated jointly by NCIC, the Media Council of Kenya, technology companies, and other stakeholders. He said such a framework would help safeguard digital integrity while protecting constitutional freedoms.

Meanwhile, Western Kenya Human Rights Watch Director Job Bwonya echoed the concerns, warning that unchecked online hostility could heighten political tensions as the country moves closer to the next General Election.

Bwonya called upon Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to remain impartial and ensure all individuals involved in cyberbullying, hate speech, and misinformation are held accountable regardless of their political affiliations.

"Security agencies must move swiftly to uphold the principles of information integrity and curb the harm caused by online lies and hate while protecting fundamental human rights," Bwonya said.

He revealed that his organization is documenting online activities and collecting evidence that could form the basis of future legal action against individuals found engaging in cyberbullying and coordinated disinformation campaigns.

According to Bwonya, politicians allegedly financing online harassment campaigns will also be targeted through legal channels if sufficient evidence is obtained.

The human rights activist condemned all forms of hate speech, ethnic hostility, and political intolerance, emphasizing the need for stronger mechanisms to address the growing threat posed by digital misinformation.

He warned that failure by authorities to respond effectively to the spread of online hate and falsehoods could undermine national cohesion and create a volatile political environment.

"The nation must respond firmly to the harm caused by online hate and lies while robustly upholding human rights. Failure to act could plunge the country into a difficult situation whose effects may take years to reverse," Bwonya cautioned.