Nairobi, Kenya – The growing influence of far-right ideologies and their associated rhetoric is increasingly evident in Kenya's political landscape, particularly through digital platforms. This development is influencing public discourse and policy execution, with various stakeholders urging for transparency regarding timelines, costs, and protective measures against potential negative impacts.

While the provided input discusses the rise of a far-right party in Portugal, in the Kenyan context, the influence of right-wing narratives is more broadly observed in public discourse, often amplified through social media. These narratives frequently intersect with issues of gender, sexuality, and societal dynamics, contributing to a complex and sometimes divisive political environment.

Historical and Political Context

Kenya has a multi-party system, with a history of highly contested elections since the reintroduction of multi-party politics in 1991. The country's political landscape has often been characterized by ethnic-centered politics, though there have been efforts to transition towards issue-based politics. Propaganda has historically been a tool used by political elites to influence public opinion and consolidate power, often exploiting ethnic sentiments.

The advent of devolution following the 2010 Constitution significantly shifted governance, empowering local communities. However, local elections have often received less attention compared to national polls, despite their direct impact on daily lives.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

The spread of misinformation and hate speech, often associated with certain right-wing narratives, presents challenges to democratic governance in Kenya. The government has attempted to curb disinformation through measures such as the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act (CMCA) and amendments to the Kenya Information and Communications Act. However, concerns have been raised that such laws could be weaponised to silence critical voices.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

Analysts observe that the rise of right-wing populism globally, and its manifestations in Kenya, are often driven by reactionary responses to changing social dynamics. Online platforms, particularly social media, play a significant role in amplifying these messages, with algorithms often prioritising engagement over user safety. This has led to concerns about the manipulation of public sentiment and the erosion of trust in democratic institutions.

Evidence and Data

Risks and Implications

The spread of disinformation and hate speech, often linked to right-wing narratives, can undermine democratic institutions, foster citizen mistrust in electoral processes, and provide justification for authorities to control information flows. This can have long-term effects on governance, potentially leading to a weakened democratic culture and increased ethnic tensions.

Unknowns and Controversies

While the influence of right-wing rhetoric is evident, the full extent of its impact on specific policy outcomes and the long-term trajectory of Kenya's political landscape remains an area of ongoing observation and analysis. The effectiveness and fairness of legislative measures aimed at curbing disinformation also continue to be debated, with some arguing they could be used to suppress dissent.

Timeline and Next Steps

Kenya is preparing for 23 by-elections across national and local seats on Wednesday, November 27, 2025. These by-elections are seen as a crucial test for the government and a potential indicator for the 2027 general elections.

What to Watch

Observers will be closely watching the upcoming by-elections for insights into evolving political dynamics and the effectiveness of various campaign strategies, including those employing right-wing narratives. The ongoing debate surrounding media literacy, stricter regulations, and the protection of free speech in the digital age will also be critical in shaping Kenya's political future.