Truth as a Casualty in Kenya's Ideological Conflict

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“Truth is the first casualty of war.” While Kenya is not in a state of war, it is experiencing a conflict of ideals between elected leaders and the populace regarding the country’s governance. In times of civil unrest, truth often becomes compromised.
The ramifications of misinformation and disinformation are increasingly evident in today’s digital age, where technology allows false information to spread rapidly. Misinformation consists of false beliefs, while disinformation involves deliberate actions aimed at shaping public opinion. The consequences are stark: chaos, confusion, fear, disunity, and even violence. In a democracy, which relies on informed citizen choices, disinformation undermines the very foundation of credible governance.
As former UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet stated, “Disinformation spreads when people feel that their voices are not heard.” It thrives in environments marked by political disenchantment, economic disparity, and social unrest. Addressing these underlying causes is crucial for mitigating the harm caused by disinformation.
Historically, disinformation has existed as long as humanity. However, the advent of the internet, social media, and artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly amplified its reach. In the past, disseminating false information required substantial financial resources. Today, anyone with a smartphone can share content globally without specialized training.
Recent technological advancements have made content creation incredibly accessible. For example, prior to 2010, producing a simple video required expensive equipment and expertise. Now, individuals can effortlessly create and share videos using just a smartphone.
A case in point is the violent events in Nairobi’s Githurai area on June 25. Following the unrest, social media was flooded with exaggerated claims of casualties. Upon investigation, reputable sources like the BBC found the reported numbers to be inflated, demonstrating how disinformation can exacerbate already tense situations.
The 2022 elections in Kenya further illustrated the spread of disinformation, as official communication lagged behind public demand for timely results. Social media influencers capitalized on this gap, disseminating misleading information for political gain.
The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) noted the commercialization of influence in Kenya’s digital landscape, where influencers are hired to manipulate narratives. This trend raises concerns about the potential for criminal or state actors to exploit social media for their agendas.
Disinformation has plagued various crises, from the COVID-19 pandemic to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Historical examples, such as the misinformation surrounding HIV/AIDS, reveal how false narratives can persist despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.
Despite our awareness of disinformation, its persuasive power remains strong. This is largely due to selective exposure; social media algorithms tailor content to users’ preferences, reinforcing existing beliefs. A 2022 study highlighted that AI systems in video-sharing apps significantly influence user engagement, often overshadowing content quality.
Worryingly, a Reuters Institute survey found that 29% of Kenyans rely on TikTok as their primary news source. This dependence on unverified information poses significant risks for public understanding.
Nonetheless, social media also presents opportunities for credible sources to connect with the public, addressing the growing demand for reliable information. As the situation evolves, fostering media literacy and critical thinking will be essential in combatting the spread of disinformation.