“HOLD US ACCOUNTABLE WITH FACTS": GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON CHARLES OWINO SOUNDS ALARM ON DIGITAL FAKE NEWS BYLINE

Government Spokesperson Charles Owino addresses the media in Nairobi, warning that social media misinformation threatens Kenya’s democracy and national unity.

By Maximilla Wafula, Sub Editor The County Diary News 

NAIROBI, Kenya - The Government of Kenya has warned that the uncontrolled spread of misinformation and disinformation across digital channels poses an immediate threat to the nation’s democratic governance, public order, and social cohesion.

Speaking during an official media briefing in Nairobi, Government Spokesperson Charles Owino cautioned that the widespread availability of smartphones in both urban and rural communities has accelerated the reach of unverified claims, leading to public decision-making grounded in false narratives.

"We are sitting on a time bomb following the rise of misinformation, disinformation, and basically making decisions based on false information," stated Owino.

Owino emphasized that mitigating digital fake news requires a unified effort across state entities, public citizens, and news organizations. Addressing media practitioners directly, he urged journalists to uphold rigorous investigative standards by cross-checking statements from both government officials and opposition figures against hard data.

"We must corroborate all our sentiments with facts and with data. If we don't do that, then we are going to fail in our responsibility," Owino warned, noting that accurate information is essential to guiding younger demographics, particularly Generation Z, who obtains primary news from online spaces.

While acknowledging the protections provided under Chapter Four of the 2010 Constitution, the Spokesperson reiterated that legal freedoms operate within defined civic responsibilities. He emphasized the necessity of respecting constitutional offices, noting that the Presidency represents a symbol of national unity regardless of personal political affiliations.

Furthermore, Owino challenged the public to assess the administration’s governance through verified benchmarks established in the 2022 manifesto rather than speculative reports. He cited key operational progress across primary sectors, noting that subsidized fertilizer prices have been reduced to KSh 2,500 per bag from KSh 7,000, supported by 7.1 million digitally registered farmers, alongside an increase in coffee prices to KSh 160 per kilogram.

In education and infrastructure, overall Ministry of Education budgetary allocations have increased to KSh 784.5 billion, funding over 100,000 teacher recruitments and the construction of more than 25,000 classrooms. On fiscal management, Owino pointed to ongoing efforts to manage inherited legacy debt obligations, including the Eurobond, amid persistent global financial shocks and climatic pressures.

Owino concluded by inviting citizens to participate constructively in public consultations for the Beyond Vision 2030 development plan and upcoming Katiba Day commemorations.