Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary (PS), Dr. Korir Sing’Oei, is facing intense scrutiny after sharing an AI-generated deepfake video falsely portraying CNN journalist Fareed Zakaria praising Kenya’s role in Sudan’s peace efforts. The video, which was later deleted, has reignited debates on misinformation, government credibility, and the selective enforcement of Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, 2018.
The Fake Video Controversy
Foreign Affairs PS Dr. Sing’Oei posted the video on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption: “For the fake analysts who doubt the good faith of Kenya’s peace diplomacy, here is a cogent assessment by CNN’s Foreign Policy expert, Fareed Zakaria.”
However, it was quickly exposed as a deepfake. The footage displayed telltale signs of AI manipulation – poorly synchronized lip movements, an uncharacteristic CNN-style overlay, and no corroboration from CNN or Zakaria. Citizen Digital’s forensic analysis confirmed the video was fake, further denting the credibility of the Foreign Affairs PS.
The backlash was swift with different personalities, journalists and commentators from different countries weighing in on the disaster.
Beyond the online ridicule, the incident raises serious concerns about Kenya’s diplomatic credibility. If a top government official is caught pushing misinformation, how does this reflect on Kenya’s global standing in peace efforts?
The deepfake tweet comes at a particularly sensitive time, as Kenya’s role in Sudan’s peace efforts is already under scrutiny following accusations by Khartoum that Nairobi is violating Sudan’s sovereignty by hosting meetings with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF)
Selective Enforcement and the Question of Consequences
Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, 2018 criminalizes publishing false information, with penalties of up to KES 5 million in fines or 10 years in prison. The law has often been used against government critics, activists, and independent media, raising concerns over selective enforcement.
Several Kenyans have been arrested for social media posts deemed misleading or defamatory. Now, the same law applies to Dr. Sing’Oei’s video, which was undeniably false – yet the government remains silent on whether he will face consequences. If an ordinary citizen had shared similar deepfakes, wouldn’t they already be behind bars?
Despite deleting the video, its 60,000+ views amplified the misinformation, making a legal response even more necessary. If the government does nothing, it reinforces the perception that these laws are weaponized to silence dissent rather than to protect truth.
Diplomatic Fallout and Kenya’s Credibility
Beyond legal concerns, this blunder could have far-reaching diplomatic consequences. Kenya has positioned itself as a key player in Sudan’s peace efforts, but sharing misinformation to bolster its image could erode trust among international partners.
CNN and Fareed Zakaria have yet to comment, but if they do, it could deepen Kenya’s embarrassment. The situation highlights a critical question: Is the Kenyan government serious about fighting misinformation, or just using cybercrime laws for political convenience?
With AI-generated content becoming more common, this case sets a precedent for how Kenya will handle digital misinformation – equally for all, or selectively for those in power?
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