Gov't hits back at ‘false’ online claims on Cybercrimes Amendment Act

Dr. Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, issued a statement on X  on Tuesday urging Kenyans to read the actual contents of the amended law rather than relying on social media commentary or selective summaries.

He stated that the majority of the online posts misrepresent the law's intent and provisions.

“A lot of what is being shared online about the amended Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act is misleading or outright false. We encourage citizens to read the adopted Bill themselves to understand what has actually changed,” Dr. Omollo said.

According to the PS, the new amendments are progressive and aim to strengthen Kenya's cybersecurity framework by increasing the power of the National Computer and Cybercrime Coordination Committee (NC4).

The law now empowers the NC4 to issue legal directives against websites and online platforms found to be engaged in activities such as child pornography, human trafficking, and terrorism.

Dr. Omollo added that the updated Act includes tougher measures to prevent harmful online behaviour, such as deliberate actions that drive victims to suicide.

He stated that this provision demonstrates the government's commitment to protecting Kenyans from emerging forms of digital harm and abuse.

The PS further noted that the changes come at a crucial time as Kenya continues to advance its Digital Superhighway — one of the flagship pillars of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

He emphasized that a secure and trustworthy digital environment is essential for innovation, e-commerce, efficient online services, and the protection of citizens’ data and livelihoods.

The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Bill, 2024, sponsored by Wajir East MP Aden Mohamed, seeks to strengthen the regulatory framework against unlawful online activities including the exploitation of minors, terrorism, and religious extremism.

Among its key provisions is an expansion of NC4’s role, giving it the power to issue directives restricting access to websites and applications that promote illegal content or extremist ideologies.

The Bill also broadens the definition of cyber harassment, making it an offence for anyone whose communication causes violence, property damage, or harm to another person.

Those found guilty risk a fine of up to Ksh. 20 million or imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.

In addition, the law expands the scope of phishing offences to cover identity theft carried out through email or phone calls.

Anyone found guilty of creating or operating a fake website, or sending deceptive messages with the intent of unlawfully obtaining personal information, could face a fine of up to Ksh. 300,000 or three years in prison.

Under the new section, anyone who unlawfully takes control of another person’s SIM card with intent to commit an offence is liable to a fine not exceeding Ksh. 200,000 or imprisonment for a term of up to two years, or both.