- Khalif Kairo has warned that false information is spreading fast in Kenya
- He says unchecked misinformation could put the country at risk
- Kairo supports free speech but calls for responsibility and balance
- He warns that constant lies can weaken trust in state institutions
Kenyan businessman and public figure Khalif Kairo has issued a strong warning over the growing spread of false information, saying it could seriously harm the country if not addressed.
Speaking on the Tubonge podcast, Kairo described the current situation as dangerous, arguing that misinformation has reached levels that could shake national stability
Kairo acknowledged that Kenya values freedom of expression and open debate, but questioned whether total freedom without safeguards is safe in the long run.
He argued that protecting personal freedoms becomes difficult when the systems that uphold them are weakened or broken.
According to Kairo, constant online narratives that spread lies or question the legitimacy of the state slowly damage public trust.
He warned that once confidence in institutions fades, even strong laws and constitutional protections lose their power to protect citizens.
Kairo said the Constitution is meant to safeguard Kenyans, but it cannot work effectively in an environment filled with chaos and falsehoods.
He explained that when people undermine the state through misinformation, they also weaken the very protections they rely on during crises.
The businessman pushed back against activists who oppose any form of speech regulation, saying such positions ignore the bigger picture.
He questioned what freedoms remain if a country collapses under pressure caused by instability and loss of order.
To make his point, Kairo pointed to countries that have suffered system breakdowns, where citizens struggle to access basic services.
He warned that Kenya should not wait to face similar outcomes before taking misinformation seriously.
Kairo claimed some online discussions go beyond criticism and intentionally promote disorder or weaken governance.
He said such content, when left unchecked, can fuel confusion and encourage unrest.
Despite his concerns, Kairo did not call for the removal of free speech.
Instead, he stressed the need for a balanced approach, where freedom comes with responsibility, just like laws exist to maintain public order and safety.
