The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) is investigating Kenyans abroad who are publishing hate messages on social media.
While speaking at a forum in Kilifi, NCIC Secretary Hassan Mohammed said they are facing a challenge of prosecuting them because they reside outside Kenya. He however noted that they risk being prosecuted when they visit the country.
In an article published in the Daily Nation, the Commission’s Secretary says they have realized that some websites located and hosted out of Kenya are spreading hate speech. “What is viewed as hate speech in Kenya may not be termed the same in another country. We will however arrest them when they visit Kenya”, he said.
He was speaking in a training for journalists and bloggers on conflict sensitive reporting. He urged bloggers to exercise social media responsibility.
Mr. Hassan added that the commission is investigating Baringo and Uasin Gishu social media forums over claims they were spreading hate speech.
He further warned politicians against funding the bloggers spreading hate messages.
Recently, the NCIC hired social media monitors to assist them monitor hate speech during the elections period. He said some data saved will be useful in prosecuting the suspects.