Swapo parliamentarian Modestus Amutse has cautioned citizens against the abuse of social media to spread false and malicious information designed to mislead the public.
Amutse, who is also the chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information and Communication Technology and Innovation, was addressing the youth in Omusati region last weekend.
Amutse accused some members of the public of disrespectful conduct, blame-shifting as well as promoting disunity.
“Despite constitutional provisions, unethical use of media freedom can destroy the unity, peace and stability that the country has successfully built over the years,” he cautioned.
Apart from tearing the country’s peace apart and promoting societal moral decay, Amutse said communities are often trapped into being misinformed through such conduct.
He urged the public to be extra-cautious against unwarranted information on social media, as some of these are plotted to misguide public and fulfil political interests.
Amutse called on the public to actively participate in the debate on Access to Information Bill once tabled for a public hearing later this year, as concerted efforts will strengthen the Bill’s ability to guide constructive use of social media.
Whilst commending Namibian media practitioners for keeping the nation abreast with timely information, the former journalist blamed some media houses for selective and bias reporting, which he claimed, such conduct deprives the public of the benefits of inclusive and accurate reporting.
“Namibia has experienced a string of political leadership and personal attacks through social media over the past two years, that include immoral exposure of love-making postures between lovers,” said Amutse. ljason@nepc.com.na