Written By Faith Mwende
Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has urged the government to step in and regulate social media platforms, citing growing concerns over misuse and its potential to destabilize the country.
Speaking on Saturday, April 5, during a meeting with COTU shop stewards, Atwoli warned that unchecked online behavior was not only damaging Kenya’s image but could also discourage foreign investors.
“If we’re not careful, the constant negativity and fake information online could spark unrest similar to what we’ve witnessed in parts of Africa like Somalia and South Sudan,” Atwoli said. “People must show patriotism.
If investors sense chaos, they’ll flee. We could be headed for the same fate as conflict-ridden regions like Congo.”
Atwoli also expressed concerns over young people’s exposure to inappropriate content, particularly on platforms like TikTok. He argued that such unfiltered access could be harmful and therefore justified government oversight of online spaces.
“These children are watching immoral content online. TikTok and similar platforms must be monitored. We must act now,” he insisted.
Drawing comparisons with China’s tight digital regulations, Atwoli called on the Kenyan government to take similar action in managing apps like TikTok and WhatsApp.
His remarks echo recent concerns raised by the Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), Noordin Haji, who flagged the growing threat of social media-driven disinformation.
Addressing stakeholders at the Mashariki Cooperation Conference in Naivasha on Thursday, April 3, Haji warned that social media platforms were increasingly being used to manipulate public opinion and incite unrest.
“There’s a noticeable uptick in online campaigns that use misinformation to undermine trust in government institutions,” said Haji. “Freedom of speech is important, but it must be balanced with national security.”
Both Atwoli and Haji stressed the importance of responsible digital engagement, urging Kenyans to use social media for positive discourse rather than division.
