William Ruto Signs Controversial Kenya Cybercrimes Amendment Act

President William Ruto signed the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, into law on October 15, 2025. The legislation, sponsored by Wajir East MP Aden Daudi Mohamed, prohibits the use of electronic media to promote terrorism, extremist religious activities, and cultic practices. It expands legal categories for phishing and identity theft and introduces penalties including fines up to Sh20 million or 10 years' imprisonment for communications that incite violence.

The act grants the National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee the authority to block websites hosting illegal content and requires service providers to share user data. Ruto defended the law as a constitutional mandate and a necessary tool to protect youth from online terror and psychological harm, citing the Shakahola tragedy as a precedent for the dangers of extremism.

Critics, including former Chief Justice David Maraga, argue the law violates constitutional freedoms of expression and privacy. The timing of the signing drew public scrutiny as it coincided with the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. In response to a petition filed by the Kenya Human Rights Commission and activist Reuben Kigame, the High Court issued conservatory orders suspending sections of the Act, including parts of Section 27 which criminalizes cyberbullying that could lead to suicide. Government officials maintain that the power to render websites inaccessible remains subject to judicial review.