By Joshua Otieno | August 26, 2026
Government Spokesperson Charles Owino has warned that the rapid spread of misinformation, disinformation and false information could pose a serious threat to Kenya’s democracy, peace and national security.
Speaking on Wednesday, Owino said the growing accessibility of social media and smartphones, including in rural communities, has made it increasingly easy for false information to reach and influence large numbers of people.
Owino described the situation as a ticking time bomb, warning that citizens who make important decisions based on misleading or fabricated information could undermine democratic processes and national cohesion.
“The greatest threat to our democracy, peace and security shall originate from people making decisions based on false information, misinformation, disinformation and fake news,” Owino said.
He called for collective action involving the government, members of the public and the media to confront the growing challenge and promote responsible information sharing.
According to Owino, strengthening national cohesion will require greater public awareness of the difference between credible information and content deliberately designed to mislead or manipulate audiences.
He also urged the media, as the Fourth Estate, to play a central role in promoting accurate information, responsible journalism and public accountability.
Owino further called for a broader national conversation on values, morality and what communities consider acceptable, saying these principles are essential in maintaining peaceful and cohesive societies.
He emphasized that addressing misinformation cannot be left to one institution, but requires cooperation between government agencies, citizens and media organisations.
The Government Spokesperson’s remarks come amid the rapid expansion of digital communication in Kenya, where social media platforms have become a major source of news and information for millions of citizens.
Owino said collective responsibility remains critical in ensuring that digital platforms contribute to national development rather than becoming channels for division, manipulation and conflict.
