Amnesty International has accused Kenyan authorities of running a coordinated online campaign to intimidate young “Gen Z” protesters. The report claims that government-linked networks paid trolls to amplify pro-government messages, suppress protest hashtags, and spread disinformation across social media platforms.
The campaign reportedly included direct threats, offensive language, misogyny, homophobia, and even AI-generated pornographic images targeting activists, particularly young women and LGBTQ+ organizers.
Amnesty also alleges that state surveillance was used to monitor protest leaders, contributing to a climate of fear and intimidation.
Kenya’s Interior Ministry has denied authorizing harassment or violence, stating that any security personnel found guilty of wrongdoing should be held accountable.