Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has cautioned Kenyan youths against misusing their constitutional right to freedom of expression by engaging in cyberbullying and online attacks targeting elected leaders.
Speaking during a women and youth empowerment drive at the Ithookwe Showground in Kitui County, Kindiki stressed that while the constitution guarantees freedom of speech, it must be exercised within the boundaries of respect and responsibility.
“Freedom of speech must not be used to insult leaders or spread hate online. If a leader is unpopular, use your vote — not vitriol,” said the Deputy President.
At the same time , the second in command has announced that the government plans to establish a digital hub at the ESP Market in Kitui, equipped with 200 computers to help youth tap into online job opportunities. He said the initiative aims to empower young people with digital skills and economic independence.
“We are opening up opportunities so youth can earn online and contribute to development, not waste time as purveyors of toxic content,” he said.
The Deputy President’s remarks came against the backdrop of national outrage over the death of Albert Ojwang’l, a popular blogger on X (formerly Twitter), who reportedly died while in police custody at Nairobi Central Police Station. His death has sparked widespread condemnation, with Kenyans demanding accountability from law enforcement agencies.
Though Kindiki did not mention Ojwang’l by name, many interpreted his warning as a veiled response to the growing online anger directed at the government following the incident.
He concluded by urging youths to use digital spaces for innovation, learning, and community building, rather than for spreading hate or political propaganda.
