President William Ruto’s Senior Adviser on Constitutional Affairs, Makau Mutua, has called on Kenyans to practice restraint in their use of social media. Speaking out against the growing trend of fabricated lifestyles and misleading content online, Mutua emphasized the need for users to distinguish between real life and the carefully curated portrayals often seen on these platforms.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Mutua expressed concern over the toxic nature of much online content. “There is too much juvenile, toxic, egotistical, self-idolatry and propagandistic information online in Kenya. People now mistake social media for real life,” he noted. He urged Kenyans to “use social media sparingly and get a real life,” highlighting that such an approach could lead to healthier and happier lives.
Mutua’s remarks come amid increasing discussions about the role and regulation of social media in Kenya. While these platforms have empowered citizens to hold leaders accountable and engage in public discourse, there is growing worry over misuse and the spread of misinformation.
Trade union leader Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), has also joined the conversation. In April, Atwoli called for government regulation of social media, citing concerns about the content young people are exposed to and the damaging effect it has on the nation’s reputation. He criticized the unchecked incitement and hatred often seen online, especially towards leaders and institutions such as trade unions.
“There is this thing called social media; it is not like in China where it is controlled. The Church must speak about social media. The young people on social media have never worked in trade unions. You will see how they talk and comment about the union — incitement on social media,” Atwoli said. He urged young people to focus on positive engagement rather than divisive propaganda, reminding them of Kenya’s role as a regional economic hub.
Despite these concerns, the government, through ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo, has dismissed any plans to shut down social media platforms, stating that no such drastic measures are under consideration.
As the debate continues, voices like Mutua’s encourage a balanced approach — using social media responsibly to foster genuine connections and national unity rather than perpetuating division and falsehoods.
