Ex-CJ differs with Murkomen over social media misuse

Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga has hit out at Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen for citing a law against the use of social media.

In a statement on X, Mutunga wondered which law CS Murkomen was referring to.

“Which law punishes misuse of social media? And if it exists is aligned to the Constitution?” he asked.

Speaking on Saturday in Bomet County, Murkomen had warned youth over what he termed as misuse of social media, adding that those engaged in cybercrime will be arrested and prosecuted.

He said the government will firmly deal with crime in the country, ensuring that all citizens are accounted for in the backdrop of claims of kidnappings.

"Even those who have been accused of various crimes, we will ensure that they are produced before about of law so that they can be charged," Murkomen said.

While condemning online harassment and the spread of offensive content, Murkomen warned those circulating defamatory images and malicious propaganda, particularly those targeting judges, church leaders, and political figures.

"We will not allow our young people to share pictures of their leaders in coffins online," Murkomen said.

"Our cybercrime law is very clear. We will follow them there. There is a need to maintain law and order online."

The CS’s remarks elicited reactions from Kenyans on X, with many wondering why the government was fiercely talking about social media instead of solving the cases of abduction.

Willis Evans Otieno said, “Instead of deploying state resources to track down and apprehend the abductors because you conveniently deny any involvement, you’re fixated on policing social media. Prioritise saving lives and upholding justice.”

Makena Mwita asked, “And whose responsibility is it to track down those who are abducting people?!”

“You desperately want to censure social media. It will never work,” Jimmy Wairagu said.

“Which law and order are you talking about?” Omogo Otieno asked.

A user, Chapia, wondered if the CS’s statement was about abduction or misuse of social media.

Murkomen’s remarks come amid rising concerns about social media’s role, with critics questioning the balance between protecting free speech and ensuring responsible online behavior.

The debate is expected to heat up as the government works to strengthen cybercrime laws and implement stricter regulations.