William Kabogo Dismisses Claims of Government Switching Off Social Media,” We are Not Switching Off’

William Kabogo Cabinet Secretary Information Communication Technology (ICT) has clarified the government’s stand on switching off social media, if the country’s security is threatened.

Speaking after his visit in Uasin Gishu County on Tuesday, January 28, Kabogo said the government is not planning to switch off social media, but user should create an enabling environment, as the first measure of the ministry.

“We have said the first measure is to understand that we need to create a good environment within use of social media. I said the other day we are not planning to switch off anything, is not in our minds. I said the capacity is there, incase we have situation of national security importance,” Kabogo clarified.

He urged on self-regulation of media, as the country has not witnessed any threatening calls to shut down social media. He also called on responsible use of social media, without regulation from users, and inclusive discussion on creating a safe space on social media platforms.

“We have no situation we have thought of doing that. Why can’t it be self-regulated so that  we have discussion in Kenya and say lets have good environment  within these platforms, so parents can feel safe that their children are being responsible while using social media,” he urged.

He disclosed that the ministry under his leadership create a portal for public participation, which will include those willing and unwilling, and remain with Kenyans who will be involved in creating a better space for  social media platforms.

“I would opening portal for public engagements. Those who like insulting leaders will insult us for a few minutes and we will be left with those that want to have discourse with us,” he stated.

He further urged Kenyans to understand the laws of computer misuse and cyber crimes, and report any thing published that indicates it is a crime. He further confidently stated that the country is moving first in the cyber space.

Kabogo said he will petition cabinet to allow OB to be applied online, instead of visiting the police stations, as on of his plans in the ministry, to allow easy access of service to Kenyans, if the cabinet approves his plans.