Kenyan Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has raised alarm over the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Kenyans to target political leaders with manipulated images, warning that such actions are a threat to societal order and security. Speaking during a public address in Uasin Gishu County alongside President William Ruto, Murkomen decried the growing trend of AI-generated images that ridicule and threaten leaders, particularly the depiction of leaders in coffins, which recently went viral online.
Murkomen asserted that such behavior, driven by political discontent and amplified through social media, endangers not only individual lives but also the nation’s stability. “There are those making these pictures with our leaders in coffins. I want to ask every parent, particularly church leaders, to condemn this bad behavior,” he said.
Murkomen criticized parents and religious leaders for failing to curb such activities among the youth, urging them to take a more active role in shaping moral behavior. He argued that normalizing such trends sets a dangerous precedent, stating, “If your child receives a picture from a classmate showing them in a coffin, would you still defend that behavior?”
He further emphasized that the government would not stand by as social media becomes a platform for threats and chaos. “We will ensure that those using social media to threaten others face the full force of the law. If we do not act, we will lose the moral fabric of our nation and jeopardize our collective security,” Murkomen declared.
President William Ruto supported Murkomen’s stance, warning that the unchecked misuse of technology could escalate to more severe societal issues. “Today, you are putting politicians in coffins. Tomorrow, it will be church leaders, then your parents and brothers. Ultimately, these individuals may become criminals, causing harm to others and themselves,” Ruto stated.
The President called on parents and leaders to steer the youth away from harmful practices, highlighting the potential long-term consequences of cultivating a culture of disrespect and misuse of technology. “We must teach our children to use the internet responsibly. Let us help them grow into productive citizens rather than individuals who propagate abuse and threats online,” he said.
The rise of AI technology presents opportunities for innovation but also risks misuse, as evidenced by these incidents. The Kenyan government’s call for accountability underscores the need to balance technological advancements with ethical considerations.
As discussions about digital ethics and regulation gain momentum, this episode serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering a culture of respect, responsibility, and critical thinking in the digital age.