In a surprising turn of events, Mayor Richard Bissen of Maui has taken the step of putting his Facebook and Instagram pages into hidden mode, effectively initiating a social media blackout. The move has left many residents and observers wondering about the reasons behind this sudden decision.
The discovery of Mayor Bissen’s absence from the social media landscape was made by a diligent user who was actively engaging with high-activity feeds. When attempting to post on the mayor’s Facebook page, they were met with an unexpected absence. Subsequent checks on the mayor’s Instagram account revealed that it too had been taken down.
The situation has raised questions about the mayor’s accessibility and engagement with the public. Concerns have been voiced about how he will be able to stay informed about the needs and concerns of his constituents when he has seemingly cut off a crucial channel of communication. The timing of this decision is also of note, as it coincides with the reopening of the west side of Maui following devastating wildfires, a move that some claim goes against the wishes of the victims and survivors.
There appears to be a mix of factors that may have contributed to Mayor Bissen’s decision to implement the social media blackout. It has been reported that the mayor has received death threats, which have likely increased the pressure to take such a step. Additionally, the influence of propaganda and the presence of protesters may have played a role in this decision. It’s worth noting that, unlike many other public figures, the mayor’s communication team may lack the necessary moderators to control conversations and narratives on social media.
The importance of moderators in handling online engagement has been underscored by this situation. Individuals who are not accustomed to dealing with the challenges of public relations in the digital age may not fully appreciate the role that moderators play in managing a flood of messages, comments, and interactions, which can sometimes include aggressive or conspiracy-related content.
Overall, the situation in Maui underscores the unique challenges faced by public figures in the digital age. The mayor’s decision to go on a social media blackout raises questions about how elected officials navigate the ever-evolving landscape of online communication, and whether it serves as an effective means of ensuring public safety and responsible governance. Maui’s current predicament is a stark reminder of the need for public figures to adapt to the complexities of modern communication while addressing concerns related to security and public engagement.
Kawika Hoke 