By Swaleh
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has announced that the Senate will summon Mining Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ali Hassan Joho for questioning over controversial remarks he made on social media. The comments, which were perceived as threats to critics of the government, have raised concerns about Joho’s conduct in his new role as a Cabinet Secretary.
Speaking on Radio Citizen on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, Senator Sifuna criticized Joho for forgetting the weight his words carry as a minister, emphasizing that his remarks should be held to a higher standard than when he was a politician or governor. Sifuna pointed out that, as a Cabinet Secretary, Joho’s words have a direct impact on the public and should be responsible and measured.
“We will summon Joho to the Senate to explain his threatening remarks,” Sifuna said. “As a minister, he cannot talk like a politician. His sentiments are taken very seriously and he must be accountable for everything he says.”
The controversy stems from Joho’s comments made during a visit to Taita Taveta on December 3, 2024. The CS slammed social media users who criticized President William Ruto’s administration, particularly those who voiced their discontent over government projects. Joho warned that he would confront bloggers who criticize the government online, stating, “We can also talk. If they bring us trouble, we can also bring equal trouble.”
His statement came in the wake of public uproar over the cancellation of two Private Public Partnership deals between the Kenyan government and the controversial Indian conglomerate, Adani. The public’s rejection of these projects, along with criticism of various government initiatives, has sparked intense debate across social media platforms.
During the same event, President William Ruto also addressed critics of his administration, describing them as “evil spirits” who oppose government projects and reforms, from affordable housing to health coverage.
Despite the Senate’s upcoming recess until February 2025, Sifuna assured that Joho would not be forgotten. “We will summon him for questioning when we resume in February,” Sifuna confirmed, adding that the Senate would hold Joho accountable for his actions.
As the political landscape in Kenya continues to shift, Joho’s comments and the Senate’s response signal the growing tension between government officials and online critics. It remains to be seen how this issue will unfold when the Senate reconvenes in 2025.
ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check importa
