Civil Liberties

Kenyan Government Spokesman Threatens International Media

Says "We will set you on fire before you set us on fire."

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Kenya's government spokesman appeared to make a veiled threat against international journalists while announcing a tough stance on information deemed divisive surrounding nationwide elections March 4.

Government spokesman Muthui Kariuki told a gathering of international reporters on Wednesday that the government will summon journalists who publish stories that have a polarising effect. He did not say what action would then be taken.

Kariuki told the journalists: "We will set you on fire before you set us on fire." He said the media and pollsters were the catalysts of violence that rocked Kenya following a disputed presidential vote five years ago.