As is the case with such media, the source may not be easily determined. But in the case of Elizabeth Kakwanzi Katanywa, it is easy to tell or rather see the hand of artificial intelligence in the creation of the video that is quickly attracting the attention online.
In the digital age where most internet users have no tools or even knowledge to verify information and media, such videos can easily spread life wildfire as they get shared.
A number of online users are just excited to share media without verifying their authenticity.
As such, the leak may be used as a tool against a political opponent.
That is the reaction of supporters of Elizabeth Kakwanzi Katanywa who is seeking the support of President Yoweri Museveni’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the flag to become the next youth MP representing the young people of western Uganda.
Elizabeth Kakwanzi Katanywa’s supporters are arguing that the video is a creation of artificial intelligence. They say Kakwanzi’s head has been planted on an already existing video to make it appear like she is the one in it.
Others say the video is entirely not hers.
“That video that has leaked is not hers stop playing dirty games on her please,” wrote a one Peace Komugisha on microblogging site X, formerly called Twitter.
A one Annah Blair added: “Its AI but they won’t manage their dirty games let them do whatever… AI won’t work in this. Why are you fearing, contest we go.”
With AI technology becoming sophisticated by day, a deep fake is likely to be believed by some people, and to be shared widely such that by the time one issues a formal clarification, damage is irreparable.
The Kakwanzi camp claims that her political opponents have engineered the video to discredit her and make her less popular.
There are also some vending the view — unpalatable as it may taste — that her camp created the video and leaked it to help her gain popularity.
One social media user named Stuart Amanya had some advice for politicians in the electoral season. ”
“We’ve officially entered political season where trust becomes a risk. If you’re a candidate for any political office, be mindful who you get involved with. Not everyone’s intentions are pure,” wrote Amanya.
“Sending strength and solidarity to Kakwanzi during this tough moment.”
AI generated videos and audios are likely to become more common as the campaign season heats up.
A few weeks ago, an audio in which a voice meant to be attributed to Speaker Anita Among exposing President Yoweri Museveni and punching holes in his public apology was flagged AI generated and fake.
Previous leaked videos such as those of Andrew Kabuura, an NTV producer, and a Lira radio owner were widely shared.
