This archive report was first published on 30 June 2021.
June 30, 2021 - Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi has reassured the public that the government will not shut down the internet over hate speech, but will instead take a firm stance against those who engage in such activities.
Speaking at the Bomas of Kenya during the launch of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission's (NCIC) strategic plan, Matiangi emphasized the government's commitment to protecting the country's citizens and maintaining peace and stability ahead of the 2022 elections.
He warned that the government will be ruthless in dealing with individuals who interfere with the freedom of others or engage in activities that could compromise national security. 'In some cases, we will be fairly ruthless when it comes to those who interfere with the freedom of others or those who engage in activities that are likely to mess up our country,' he said.
Matiangi also announced that the security sector has formed a multi-agency team to map the country and identify potential security hotspots, and that they will enforce responsibility and accountability without fear or favor.
The NCIC's strategic plan, which runs from 2025 to 2025, aims to enhance awareness creation, issue-based politics, inclusion, and diversity, and to deliver peaceful electoral processes.
