Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has, on Sunday, October 24, threatened to shut down media houses.
Speaking during the launch of a local station in Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County, Matiang'i stated that he is ready to invoke the Public Order Act by shutting down media outlets that will be used by politicians to spread hate speech and tribalism ahead of the elections.
The CS disclosed that inasmuch as the ministry will be patient, it will go all the way to ensure that it prevents political unrest in the August 9, 2022, general election.
"You know us, I will go the whole hog if you break the law. I will shut you down, and without batting an eyelid," the CS remarked.
Matiang'i explained that he would be doing that in the best interest of the country. ICT CS Joe Mucheru, who was also present during the ceremony, raised concern over the credibility of the news.
"We are living in a time of a lot of darkness, a time where you see news on your phone and ask if it is true or fake," Mucheru remarked
He also condemned recent acts of political intolerance in the country. Referring to the incident where Deputy President William Ruto's motorcade was pelted with stones in Busia County on Saturday, October 23.
"We started like that in 2007, and you know where we ended. this time round, we will not wait ad procrastinate, we will act with speed and firmness, on all those things," the Interior boss stated.
Matiang'i added that his office would do everything it can to ensure that there are free, fair and peaceful elections. He added that the ministry would ensure that there is an environment for peaceful campaigns.
The CS added that any politician was free to conduct political campaigns anywhere in the country and that differences of opinion is not enough reason to cause instability in the country.
He further directed the police to act firmly to any act of intolerance and political misconduct and assured that the police would not be biased in enforcing the law.
