The National Security Advisory Council has faulted the divisive rhetoric gaining momentum in Kenya, days after two people died in clashes pitting youth groups in Murang’a during Deputy President William Ruto’s visit on Sunday. Addressing the press at Harambee house, the chair of the council and head of public service said all public gatherings must be held within the constraints of the law and that any person seeking to convene a public meeting or procession must seek permission from the area Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at least 3 days prior but not more than 14 days before the proposed date.
He said the he should be present throughout the meeting and shall assist the police in maintenance of peace and public order during the meeting, coupled with obeying all orders given to him or her by the OCS. Any person wishing to attend the meetings will be required exercise a high degree of ethnic duty and responsibility, and not be in possession of any weapon, “And at all times bid themselves to be peaceful and non violent, and keep themselves in designated places for public meetings.”
On the messages communicated through the press, he said all outlets will be held responsible for the content they publish or broadcast, “The media shall not publish words intended to incite feelings of contempt, hatred, hostility, discrimination against anyone….” he added. He further stated that all media houses should not provide a platform to hate mongers, inciters, tribalists and practice conflict sensitive reporting.
Social media users will also be required to be responsible and individually liable for all content on their pages. He said social media users should avoid using language that sets a tone of hate speech, violence, defamation or abuse and that the truthfulness of all content should be validated before sharing with other users