Governance experts have raised serious concerns about a new law being pushed by Maryanne Keitany, a close ally of President William Ruto. The law aims to monitor Kenyans closely whenever they use the internet. Experts warn that this is not just about controlling hate speech but about stalking and tracking anyone who criticizes the government online.
This move looks like a clear attempt to silence online activists and opponents just before the 2027 general elections.
According to a report by The Standard newspaper, many people are asking why this law is coming up now, just a few years after President Ruto’s government took office.
If the government was really worried about hate speech or online crimes, why didn’t they bring such a law immediately after winning the last elections?
The timing suggests this is more about stopping people from speaking out against the government as the next election approaches. Instead of protecting Kenyans, the law seems designed to keep a close eye on them and control what they say online.
Maryanne Keitany, who introduced this law, has not explained clearly why it is necessary now. Instead, her actions show a government that fears criticism and wants to control public opinion.
Many Kenyans rely on the internet to express their views, share information, and organize for change. This law threatens to take away these freedoms by forcing users to identify themselves, making it easier for the government to punish those who speak against it.
Experts have warned that this bill could kill online activism, which has become a powerful tool for citizens to hold leaders accountable. Social media and online platforms have helped Kenyans expose corruption, share political ideas, and demand better services.
By forcing everyone to register with their real ID, the government would know exactly who is saying what, scaring people from speaking freely. This is not about safety, it is about control and intimidation.
The government claims this law is to stop fake news and hate speech. However, many Kenyans see it as a way to spy on them and limit their rights. The fear is that this law will make the internet less free, and many will stop using it to avoid government harassment.
This bill threatens privacy, freedom of expression, and the right to speak without fear. Maryanne Keitany must explain why she is pushing this law now and how it benefits ordinary Kenyans. Instead of helping people, it looks like she is helping the government tighten its grip on power by watching and punishing anyone who dares to speak up.
This bill risks turning Kenya’s digital space into a controlled zone where free speech is just a memory.
Leave feedback about this