Examining freedom of expression in Bunge la Mwananchi forums in Kenya using the Public Sphere Theory

Abstract

Abstract: For almost twenty years, Bunge la Mwanainchi (BLM) has served as a platform for sharing information and has been used by politicians, activists, and regular people to further their objectives. Despite its presence, researchers have paid little to no attention to BLM preferring to concentrate on messages and information spread through other traditional media like radio, television, and newspapers. For almost twenty years, Bunge la Mwanainchi (BLM) has served as a platform for sharing information and has been used by politicians, activists, and regular people to further their objectives. Despite its presence, researchers have paid little to no attention to BLM preferring to concentrate on messages and information spread through other traditional media like radio, television, and newspapers. This research sought to investigate messages exchanged during the Bunge la Mwanainchi discussions in Kenya using the Public Sphere Theory (PST). Public Sphere Theory was proposed by German philosopher Jurgen Habermas in 1962. The tenets of the theory include disregard for class, popular concern, and inclusivity. A descriptive research design was employed where ten in-depth interviews and fifteen focus group discussions were utilized to gather data. The participants for the FGDs and interviews were chosen using convenience and purposive sampling techniques, respectively. The generated qualitative data was analyzed thematically and presented in narration and verbatim. The study revealed that BLM doesn’t create original content for its members. Instead, the messaging is mostly influenced by what is trending in the mainstream media. The study concluded that although BLM messages and material are mostly influenced by what is popular in mainstream media stories, there are times when BLM produces original content that is covered by the media. However, these are rare occurrences. The results of the study will add to the corpus of knowledge in the fields of political communication, civic participation, and media studies. The results may be utilized as a means of encouraging community mobilization in favor of Kenya's Vision 2030 Plan.