In recent years, digital platforms have become essential for activism in Kenya. Figures like Boniface Mwangi, who has been a prominent voice against social injustices and government malpractice, have harnessed social media to mobilize support and spotlight pressing issues in the country.
However, recent detention of activists detention highlight the risks that activists face in the digital sphere.
Activists are increasingly targeted through legal provisions in Kenya that allow the government to scrutinize online content under the guise of security and order. For instance, Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act has been criticized for its vague language, which can be used to justify the surveillance or detention of individuals accused of “cyber-harassment” or spreading “false information.” These legal provisions create a climate of fear among activists, who may self-censor to avoid facing similar repercussions.
This targeting of activists raises broader questions about the future of online activism in Kenya. The restrictions not only stifle dissent but also create a chilling effect that discourages citizens from discussing sensitive issues. To ensure that the internet remains a safe space for advocacy, there is an urgent need for policies that protect activists’ rights while maintaining an environment conducive to free expression and accountability.