Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi Condemns Misuse of Social Media, Calls for Legal Reforms
Dagoretti North Member of Parliament Beatrice Elachi has strongly criticised the growing misuse of social media platforms, particularly the sharing of explicit content.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Elachi expressed concern that social media, while intended for positive engagement, has increasingly become a breeding ground for cyberbullying, child exploitation, pornography, and gambling.
“Social media was created to help individuals grow and connect,” she said. “But unfortunately, some Kenyans are misusing it by sharing indecent content. That was never the intention, and we must amend the law to reflect that.”
Elachi also highlighted the disturbing messages and images women parliamentarians often receive online. “One day, as female MPs, we’ll show you the kind of content we encounter on our phones. It’s unacceptable, and we must act through legislative change,” she added.
The MP further noted that many young people are using these platforms to bully politicians and peers, misusing the freedom of expression.
Her remarks come in the wake of the National Prayer Breakfast held on May 28 at Safari Park, where lawmakers from across the political spectrum gathered to pray for peace, unity, and an end to online abuse. The event saw rare unity among MPs, who collectively sought divine intervention to curb social media hostility and division.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula set the tone for the event, highlighting the theme “Rise and Rebuild,” which he described as a call to action for both leaders and citizens to take responsibility in shaping the nation’s future.
Elachi, during her prayer at the event, was candid and emotional in her appeal. “Our youth are feeling hopeless. We pray that the spirit behind the misuse of social media is broken. Let us stand up for what is right—for the sake of our country and future generations,” she prayed.
She concluded with a heartfelt confession: “As legislators, we acknowledge our role in addressing this issue. We pray for the courage to do what is right. Father, forgive us.”
