How Artificial Intelligence could sway the 2027 election outcomes

A polling station. Kenyans will vote to elect new leaders in the 2027 General Election. [File, Standard]

During a recent town hall in Kisumu, Oyoo, a thoughtful middle-aged man, voiced strong support and concern over a prospective presidential candidate and current senator. His worry stemmed from an image that had widely circulated online, depicting this senator kissing a nominated female Senator.

Since I was moderating the town hall, I informed Oyoo that the controversial image was actually fake, a product of artificial intelligence (AI). It was troubling to realise how easily manipulated content could sway public opinion, reflecting the growing influence and potential dangers of AI in shaping society.