Former Prime Minister Keith Rowley has sparked discussion on social media after claiming that bots and trolls are playing an increasingly significant role in shaping political narratives in Trinidad and Tobago.
In a Facebook post, Rowley shared a political video and commented, “Should we be surprised now? They just have more bots and trolls now and they are more experienced in evading media and the truth.”
The statement appeared to suggest that organized online activity is being used to influence public perception and political discourse. While Rowley did not directly identify any individuals or groups, his remarks have been interpreted by many as a criticism of political messaging circulating on social media platforms.
The former Prime Minister’s comments come at a time when social media continues to serve as a major battleground for political debate, with supporters and critics of various parties regularly using platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and X to promote their views.
Rowley’s reference to bots and trolls reflects a growing global concern about the impact of coordinated online campaigns, fake accounts, and misinformation on public opinion. Similar concerns have been raised in countries around the world, where political discussions increasingly take place in digital spaces rather than through traditional media.
His post quickly attracted reactions from both supporters and detractors, with some agreeing that online manipulation has become more sophisticated, while others argued that criticism of political figures should not automatically be dismissed as the work of bots or trolls.
The comments have added another layer to the ongoing national conversation about politics, accountability, and the influence of social media in shaping how citizens receive and interpret information. As digital platforms continue to dominate public discourse, questions surrounding authenticity, misinformation, and political influence remain at the forefront of debate.
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