Blow to Kenyan Online Users as President Kenyatta Signs Controversial Cyber-Crimes Bill into Law

President Kenyatta has signed the controversial Computer and Cyber-Crimes Bill 2018 into law.

This means that anyone found generating and spreading false news online could find himself in jail for at least five years, or pay millions of shillings in court fines.

Also targeted by the new law are WhatsApp group administrators who allow sharing of fake news or information meant to incite ethnic hatred.

The Bill, which was fronted by Majority Leader in the National Assembly Aden Duale, proposed a Sh5 million fine or two years jail sentence for those found guilty of spreading fake news.

“Fake news is an offence under this bill, even when you receive fake news and forward it to another person, that’s an offence in this bill,” Duale had said.

Cyber bullies and stalkers now face 10 years imprisonment or Sh20 million fine or both. The law also targets those who alter information through Photoshop.

Other crimes covered under the new law include; cyber espionage, computer fraud, unauthorised access, interference and interception to security systems and illegal use of devices and access codes. 

Under the new law, sharing pornographic images and videos on the social media will attract a maximum fine of Sh300,000 or 30 years in prison or both. Spreading of child pornography will attract a Sh20 million fine or 25 years in prison or both.

President Kenyatta signed the Bill into law on Wednesday, despite calls from different civil groups and the media to reject the Bill. 

Critics argue that the Bill is an attempt by government to muzzle internet users and regulate information flow, mainly on issues relating to graft and human rights violations. The Bill was passed by Parliament last month.