Fight hate speech as we head to elections

Many scholars will agree with me that when it comes to freedom of expression and hate speech, there is a very thin line.

It's nearing elections and people will start campaigning; some will not control their tongues.

Our leaders have become involved in public hate campaigns, even using social networks as a platform to spread propaganda.

The atmosphere in the country is reminiscent of 2007, shortly before the riots broke out. No one would want the same scenario to happen.

It is high time we woke up and vowed not to allow the leaders to divide us along tribal lines.

Though the Constitution provides for freedom of expression, it should be noted that the right to freedom does not extend to propaganda for war, incitement to violence or hate speech.

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission is just a scare dog that cannot bark.

Despite the widespread hate speech, the commission is not doing much to arrest the situation.

There is urgent need to develop, in conjunction with critical organs of the society such as the media, higher learning institutions, a taxonomy of what constitutes hate speech.

The media through their union should incorporate these as part of good journalism practice and impose sanctions on erring members who publish or broadcast hate speech-laden material.

The NCIC, in conjunction with civil society groups and community leaders, should also embark on a campaign against the use of hate speech.

In the same vein, internet service providers should be encouraged to bring down blogs and websites they host, which publish, promote or give unfettered space for the expression of free speech.

The State has the right to impose limitations on the right to freedom of expression, using different levels of protection.