Eldoret Human Rights activist Kimutai Kirui has called on the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and the police to investigate misuse of social media to incite locals in Uasin Gishu county ahead of the upcoming general election.
Kirui claims social media, especially WhatsApp is the new avenue where people are being threatened, coerced, as well as propagating ethnic incitement.
In a media briefing in Eldore town, the Human Rights activist further accused Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago and Kapseret member of Parliament Oscar Sudi of being among leaders that are using coded language to profile other politicians perceived to be ‘outsiders’ who are eying various political seats.
“This profiling is happening in funerals and harambees where the politicians are using the term ‘son of the soil’ to discredit other leaders perceived to be against Deputy President William Ruto. It has reached a point that when someone is seen as not aligning to the DP, they profile him based on his/her sub-tribe,” Kirui noted.
He now wants NCIC to crack the whip against the politicians as well as admins of the WhatsApp groups entertaining incitements.
“This is an issue that needs to be addressed seriously by NCIC and the Ministry of Interior as well as other relevant stakeholders because if ignored, the situation might be worse as the country moves closer to the elections period,” noted the Human Rights activist.
“The social media incitement is so deep mainly in ward and sub-county WhatsApp groups. Professionals like teachers, doctors, and even lawyers have fallen into the trap and the trend is worrying,” Kirui added.
He also challenged politicians who have been profiled to report the matter to the police so as to help ensure investigations are launched and culprits brought to book.
