Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi has opened up about one of the most painful experiences she faced on social media—dealing with the trolling that followed the death of her beloved son, Elvis Murakana. The tragic news of her son’s passing was widely shared by MPs and others, prompting condolences across the country. However, alongside the outpouring of sympathy, Elachi found herself the target of hurtful comments and cyberbullying.
During a recent interview, Elachi reflected on the difficult time she endured after losing her son. She revealed that she never personally read the negative remarks shared online but was informed about them by her family members. She expressed gratitude for not having seen the cruel messages, explaining that the worst moment for her was when people talked about her son in such a disrespectful way, especially since he was not well-known to the public before his death.
Elachi also shared her thoughts on the broader impact of social media negativity, recounting a similar experience she witnessed involving the late Kasipul MP Ong’ondo Were. She sympathized deeply with his children, who were still in school and had to face the emotional pain and stigma caused by the online discussions surrounding their father’s death. The MP questioned the humanity of those who would spread such harsh comments, highlighting the emotional toll it must take on young children who have to return to school while dealing with public scrutiny and grief.
The MP went further to criticize the tendency of some people to announce deaths on social media before the bereaved families have had a chance to inform others themselves. She cautioned against the rush to share such sensitive news publicly, pointing out that premature announcements can cause immense shock and even harm to those closest to the deceased. Elachi urged people to consider the emotional impact and to show respect by allowing families the space and time to grieve privately before such news is made public.
In recounting the tragic accident that claimed her son’s life, Elachi expressed a sense of relief that he was alone in the car at the time. She was thankful that he had been out late at night helping others and that no one else was involved in the accident. Her reflections conveyed a deep sense of loss but also gratitude for small mercies amidst tragedy.
Elachi also used the opportunity to reflect on the influence of social media in modern society, expressing concern over how it has eroded traditional values and morals. She emotionally prayed for Kenyan youths, emphasizing the need for a shift away from harmful online behaviors and urging people to be more compassionate and respectful in their interactions on digital platforms.
This experience has clearly left a mark on Elachi, highlighting the dark side of social media where grief and loss can be met with insensitivity and cruelty. Her call for greater empathy and respect in how people communicate about death and bereavement serves as an important reminder of the human cost behind every online comment.
