Justin Kinyua Mwangi, a digital strategist and political storyteller, was detained by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Wanguru Town, Mwea, Kirinyaga County, over allegations of hate speech and ethnic contempt on social media.
The DCI stated that Kinyua, who manages the Facebook account under his name, is accused of publishing content violating sections 13 and 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act. He is expected to be charged in court for these offenses.
Following concerns raised by Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, who initially reported Kinyua’s abduction by armed men, the DCI clarified that the digital strategist’s detention was lawful and related to the hate speech investigation.
The arrest forms part of a broader government initiative involving the DCI, National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties. This multi-agency taskforce aims to curb hate speech and incitement ahead of the 2027 General Election.
NCIC Chairperson Bishop Kepha Nyamweya Omae emphasized the importance of enforcing the Electoral Code of Conduct and warned that divisive rhetoric threatens national peace. He noted that candidates found guilty of such offenses could face disqualification through legal channels.
The DCI reiterated that while freedom of expression is constitutionally protected, it does not permit spreading messages that incite hatred or undermine social cohesion. The agency affirmed its commitment to prosecuting individuals who misuse digital platforms to threaten national stability.
