ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has stated that the government could shut down social media when there is a threat to national security.
Speaking on Tuesday, January 28, the CS cited the case of Rwanda when the media was used for incitement during the genocide.
Therefore, he reiterated that there was capacity within the government to enforce the shutdown.
"The capacity is there in case we have a case of national security. For example, we know what happened in Rwanda when the radios were used for genocide purposes.
"If that happens, we will switch them off," he stated.
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On the other hand, he maintained that the government was not planning to shut down social media because of the recent misuse of the platforms.
Instead, Kabogo called on social media users to self-regulate and respect other Kenyans.
"We have said that there is a need to create a good environment with the use of social media. I said this the other day, we are not planning to switch on anything. It is not in our minds," the CS remarked.
Meanwhile, to enhance the enforcement of regulations, the Ministry of Interior directed social media platforms to establish physical offices in Kenya.
"To ensure responsibility and accountability in the face of rising disinformation, social media manipulation, and online abuse, all social media organizations operating in the country must establish a physical presence within our jurisdiction," the Ministry added.
