We’re protecting you; Ruto
President William Ruto has once again emphasized his administration’s dedication to protecting Kenyans from harassment, inappropriate content, and bullying on social media.
Ruto made it clear that the government will not permit the digital space to be used as a weapon against its citizens.
While speaking in Laikipia, Ruto voiced his worries about the increasing instances of online abuse and immoral content aimed at young people, cautioning that the government is prepared to take strong measures to safeguard the mental and emotional health of Kenyans.
“Our young people are being harassed; they are being terrorized on social media. We must stop that,” Ruto said.
“There are people running this business of harming our youth, and as a result, many of them are committing suicide because of the kind of terrorism happening online. We must stop them.”
The President stood up for the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, emphasizing that it’s a crucial measure to safeguard Kenyans against online dangers like cyber harassment, digital fraud, and extremist propaganda.
“We’re making the right choices for Kenya. Our goal is to protect our youth and ensure the security of our nation from threats that could harm our well-being,” he stated.
Ruto encouraged those who criticize the law to “stick to the facts and let the country progress,” pointing out that these amendments have been in the works since 2024.
“Kenya must stand up to those who are using the digital space to spread terrorism. And we must say the truth—there are people who want to destroy Kenya by all means,” he remarked.
His remarks came just a day after the High Court put a temporary hold on enforcing key parts of the revised cybercrime law while awaiting the results of a constitutional challenge.
On Wednesday, October 22, Justice Lawrence Mugambi issued conservatory orders that paused the enforcement of Sections 27(1)(b), 27(1)(c), and 27(2) of the Act. These sections broaden the definition of cyber harassment to include communications that are considered “grossly offensive,” “indecent,” or likely to induce “fear or distress.”
“Pending the hearing and determination of this application, a conservatory order is hereby issued suspending the enforcement, implementation, and operation of section 27 (1) (b), (c), and (2) of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2025,” ruled Justice Mugambi.
In an effort to ease public concerns, Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura has reassured everyone that the new law won’t infringe on our freedoms of speech or expression.
“The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024 does not give government agencies unchecked powers to silence dissent,” Mwaura said during a press briefing.
We’re protecting you; Ruto
