Software developer Rose Njeri created a pro-democracy tool in Kenya to help citizens challenge a controversial finance bill. Instead of support, she was arrested and subjected to an online smear campaign, highlighting the increasing repression of dissent in the country. Her detention in May led to a surge of solidarity under #FreeRoseNjeri, but she also became entangled in conspiracy theories portraying her as a foreign agent.
Amid rising protests against President William Ruto, Kenyans have faced aggressive online disinformation campaigns aimed at discrediting activists. Prominent tactics include spreading misleading information that frames activists as “paid puppets” backed by foreign entities, particularly following a BBC documentary exposing police brutality. These campaigns utilize automated postings and create false narratives through manipulated hashtags.
Human rights advocates like Boniface Mwangi, also targeted, were detained in Tanzania and reported abuses. The government appears increasingly connected to these disinformation strategies, which aim to undermine activists and suppress legitimate protests. As disinformation tools evolve with advancements in technology, the risks for dissenters continue to grow, with individuals like Njeri asserting their commitment to fight for democracy despite the threats they face.
