Leaders use social media to appeal for calm

By Stephen Makabila

Saturday's attack on Nairobi’s Westgate shopping mall was trending on social media for the better part of the day.

The social media was awash with comments of Kenyans from all over the world.  The international media also carried breaking news alerts on the attacks, but with varying numbers of those killed. Quoting witnesses, the BBC reported that a gunfight inside a  shopping centre had left at least five people dead.

Reuters wrote: “At least 15 people were killed when gunmen attacked a shopping mall in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, on Saturday and more casualties were inside the complex, the Kenya Red Cross said.”

The AFP, while quoting police sources, wrote, “Gunmen who attacked a Nairobi shopping mall Saturday have taken at least seven hostages”.

Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo tweetted: “Once again everybody stay away from Westgate. We are rescuing the shoppers. Police have taken control. Exchange of gunshots. Be calm.”

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 Later, the Interior Ministry also tweeted urging Kenyans to stop giving non-factual information on the attack through social media.

Rescue first!

Vision 2030 CEO Mugo Kibati had this to tell the media on twitter: “Security operation to safely rescue hostages must come first! Please stop broadcasting details and photos of security operation!”

And the Media Council of Kenya also twitted: ‘We are advising the media to be careful while reporting the Westgate Mall hostage crisis. Please don’t compromise hostages’ safety.”

Socialite Huddah Monroe noted, “Westgate casualties need blood at MP Shah Hospital. If u are around that area. Don’t hesitate. Help a brother, to help a brother!” And following media reports that at least seven hostages were being held, Martha Onyango twitted, “We may not know every single person held hostage in Westgate but right now you’re like family. Praying hard for you.”

Susan Gatuguta-Gitau wrote on her facebook: “My dear friends in Nairobi, I hope you are all safe. The images from the Westgate saga are traumatising. Please call everyone you know and check that they are safe.”