By Joshua Otieno | August 26, 2026
Government Spokesperson Charles Owino has condemned the use of abusive language against President William Ruto, calling for higher standards of conduct and respect for the presidency.
Speaking on Wednesday, Owino expressed concern over what he described as unacceptable behaviour, particularly among young Kenyans using social media to attack national leaders.
“It is very sad and very unacceptable to hear especially a young, upcoming Kenyan abuse the Head of State and the President of the Republic. What moral values do you hold? What examples are you showing the upcoming young members of our society?” Owino said.
Owino emphasized that Kenyans have the right to disagree with individual leaders and express their political opinions, but argued that such differences should not translate into personal abuse of the President.
“The presidency is a symbol of national unity. You may have a difference with individuals, but the presidency is a symbol of national unity and you cannot abuse the President,” he said.
He called for greater responsibility in the use of social media, particularly as digital platforms continue to influence public debate and shape the attitudes of younger generations.
Owino said Kenyans must consider the values they are promoting through their public conversations, warning against normalizing insults and abusive political discourse.
His remarks come amid growing concerns over the nature of political conversations on social media, where disagreements between supporters of different political camps have increasingly spilled into personal attacks and insults.
The Government Spokesperson urged citizens to embrace respectful debate while protecting the dignity of national institutions and promoting values that can strengthen national unity and social cohesion.
