Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya has opposed the proposal by Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli to regulate social media.
Taking to his socials, MP 5Salasya warned that such a move threatens the country’s democratic principles, arguing that it would undermine constitutional freedoms and the voice of the youth.
“Atwoli’s agenda is trying to push to regulate social media like China threatens our democracy. It violates Articles 33 and 34 of our constitution, risks government abuse, & silences the youth,” he said.
Salasya opposes Atwoli’s pledge to regulate social media. Photo: Courtesy.
He went on to highlight the critical role that social media plays in enhancing government accountability, citing the failed 2024 Finance Bill as a testament to the power of social media.
Atwoli had previously called on the government to regulate social media, arguing that it is not conducive to young people.
The COTU boss noted that the government must do something to regulate social media and that Kenyans and leaders must speak about it.
“There is this thing called social media, it is not in China, it is controlled. The Church must speak about social media, the church must speak about TikTok. We can’t have such a society. The young people on social media have never worked in trade unions. You will see how they talk and comment about the union, incitement on social media,” he said.
