Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi /OPCSThe Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured the diplomatic community that the government is actively addressing all issues raised by Kenyans online, including safeguarding citizen rights.
The ministry noted with concern that a section of Kenyans have taken to expressing their dissenting views by writing to members of the international community delegitimizing the government and its policies.
“The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs expresses concern over recent cyber activities spreading misinformation and disinformation aimed at undermining the credibility of the government,” a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs released on Thursday read.
“These activities, initially sparked by genuine protests by "Gen Zs," have evolved into organised cyber attacks by a few social media influencers and seek to delegitimize government initiatives, discourage high-level visits, and de-campaign Kenya's candidates for international and regional positions while sending intimidatory messages to members of the international community.”
The ministry noted that the cyber activities, the majority of which are Al-generated deepfakes, fabricated narratives, widespread misinformation campaigns, and coordinated auto-generated emails, are being sent to foreign capitals.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry reassured partners that efforts are underway to address challenges raised on social media.
This includes, but is not limited to, the development of a Technology Responsibility Charter aimed at promoting accountability and ethical practices in the digital space.
“The Ministry assures all Diplomatic Missions, UN Agencies, and International Organizations of its willingness to discuss any concerns or clarifications and remains open to addressing these shared risks while fostering constructive dialogue, mutual understanding, and adherence to its constitutional and international obligations,” the statement read.
According to the statement, the government is seeking the establishment of a broad-based government.
The concerns are the withdrawal of the contested Finance Bill 2024 and the subsequent development of a new bill that is inclusive and responsive to the socio-economic realities of the citizens.
Expansion and protection of civic space through a Multi-stakeholder Forum (MSF) on Open Government that allows for reforms to be co-created with civil society, development partners, and missions (a State of Openness Report is also being developed, and input is welcomed) and ensuring rights and safety protection of all individuals.
"The Ministry encouraged continued engagement and affirms Kenya's commitment to maintaining a stable and cooperative international environment."