Gilgil MP Martha Wangari has spoken out strongly against the victimization of Kenyan youth for voicing criticism of the government on social media, calling on public officials to embrace scrutiny or resign. Addressing residents in Karunga on Sunday, Wangari condemned what she described as an alarming trend of intimidation, threats, and even killings targeting young people who express dissenting views online.
“Public office is not for the faint-hearted,” she said. “If you can’t handle criticism, you should quit.”
Wangari emphasized that freedom of expression is a constitutional right and urged government officials to stop treating criticism as a personal attack. She noted that she has personally faced insults and harsh feedback but has never resorted to legal action, arguing that listening to citizens—even harsh critics—can lead to better governance.
Her comments come in the wake of growing public outrage following the suspicious death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’, who died in police custody after allegedly posting content critical of Deputy Inspector-General of Police Eliud Lagat. An autopsy revealed signs of torture, contradicting earlier claims by police that Ojwang’ committed suicide.
“This cannot become the norm,” Wangari warned. “We cannot keep seeing mothers bury their children because they expressed their views online.”
She disclosed that the National Assembly has summoned Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to explain the worrying pattern of extra-judicial killings and clampdowns on freedom of expression.
While defending online freedoms, Wangari also urged the youth to practice responsibility in how they express themselves on digital platforms.
Her stance contrasts with Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi, who has proposed constitutional amendments to regulate social media usage. Elachi has accused youth of using platforms like X and Facebook to harass leaders and peers, calling it an abuse of free speech.
The contrasting views reflect the ongoing national debate over balancing responsible digital discourse with protecting civil liberties in a rapidly evolving online space.
