Confusion has gripped Mandera residents after claims spread like wildfire suggesting that foreign soldiers had allegedly taken up positions in parts of the county. The chatter quickly spilled over to social media, stirring tension and fueling speculation about the government’s silence on the matter.
But in a swift response captured by government officials on Facebook, Deputy Government Spokesperson Mwanaisha Chidzuga dismissed the claims, describing them as misleading and politically motivated. She said the stories were crafted to scare locals and paint a false picture of insecurity in the region.
Chidzuga revealed that an investigation is already underway to trace the origin of the reports and verify whether there is any factual basis behind them. She added that security agencies on the ground are actively monitoring the situation, ensuring no loopholes are left for misinformation to thrive.
The government has since urged Kenyans not to panic, stressing that life in Mandera should continue as normal. Officials assured that once the ongoing assessment is complete, the responsible Cabinet Secretary will issue a comprehensive statement detailing the findings.
What seems to be driving the tension is the speed at which unverified stories are spreading online. The government has warned that fake updates and politically charged rhetoric could destabilize peace in Mandera and beyond. Citizens have been reminded to be vigilant and rely only on verified communication channels.
With the 2027 election season slowly building up, many observers believe such stories are part of the political games being played to discredit state institutions. By calming fears early, the government hopes to seal off any attempts to stir unnecessary unrest.
By Newsmedia