Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho has recently faced significant backlash from Kenyans following his stern warning to social media users who criticize President William Ruto’s administration.
During a public rally in Taita Taveta on December 2, 2024, Joho condemned individuals who, according to him, misuse free internet services provided by the government to disparage its efforts.
He emphasized that nation-building cannot be achieved through online platforms and cautioned that his team is prepared to respond assertively to any provocations.
This stance marks a notable shift for Joho, who previously was a vocal critic of President Ruto during his tenure as Mombasa Governor.
His recent comments have reignited discussions about political realignments and the fluid nature of alliances in Kenyan politics.
Many Kenyans have taken to social media to express their disappointment, accusing Joho of hypocrisy and reminding him of his past criticisms against the current administration.
The hashtag #WhenJohoWasPatriotic trended on X (formerly Twitter), with users sharing past statements where Joho had condemned Ruto.
In response to the online uproar, Joho remained defiant, reaffirming his support for President Ruto and the government’s development projects.
He urged critics to focus on constructive nation-building activities rather than online disparagement.
However, his remarks have continued to fuel debates about freedom of expression and the role of public officials in addressing dissenting opinions.
The incident underscores the complex dynamics of Kenyan politics, where shifting allegiances often lead to public scrutiny and debate.
