Newly Signed Cybercrime Law Sparks Legal Showdown and Social Media Uproar in Kenya

Kenya, 22 October 2025 - Kenya’s digital space is once again at the centre of a heated national debate after a coalition of lawyers, activists, and bloggers filed a petition challenging the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, a law they say grants the government sweeping powers over online activity and threatens constitutional freedoms.

The petition, lodged at the Milimani Law Courts and supported by prominent figures including blogger Cyprian Nyakundi and lawyer Levi Munyeri, argues that the amendments were passed without adequate public participation and could be used to silence dissenting voices, restrict media freedoms, and criminalise online criticism.

The Law at the Heart of the Storm

Assented to by President William Ruto on 15 October 2025, the law expands the powers of the National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee (NCCCC), allowing it to block websites and applications, order service providers to restrict access to online accounts, and impose steep penalties for cyber harassment and “false or misleading” digital content.

Supporters of the law argue it strengthens Kenya’s defenses against the rise of cyberattacks, online fraud, and hate speech. However, digital rights advocates say the language of the law is vague, opening the door to state surveillance and censorship.

“It’s a Trojan horse. Behind the promise of cyber safety lies the danger of digital repression,” said petitioner Munyeri, who is also a constitutional lawyer.

“The government now has unchecked powers to monitor, block, and silence citizens without judicial oversight.”

A Petition Rooted in Rights

The petitioners are asking the High Court to suspend the implementation of the law pending determination of its constitutionality. They argue that it violates Articles 33, 34, and 35 of Kenya’s Constitution, which guarantee freedom of expression, media independence, and access to information.

In a statement shared by Amnesty International Kenya, activists described the move as “a backslide in Kenya’s digital democracy,” warning that it mirrors regional trends where governments use cybersecurity laws to restrict civic space.

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has also weighed in, saying that while cybercrime must be addressed, laws must not be used to “muzzle online freedoms and dissent.”

“Every democracy needs laws to protect its citizens, but no democracy thrives on fear,” Mr Maraga said on Tuesday.

Online Reaction: #StopDigitalRepression

News of the petition has triggered intense debate across social media platforms. The hashtag #StopDigitalRepression trended on X (formerly Twitter) as Kenyans, journalists, and digital creators expressed fears that their online activity could now be monitored or restricted.

Blogger Cyprian Nyakundi, known for exposing corruption scandals, wrote on his account:

“This is not about cybercrime. It’s about control. They want to shut down dissent and make criticism illegal.”

Some creators on TikTok and YouTube have also voiced concerns that new clauses in the Act could be used to target content deemed “mischievous” or “offensive” terms that remain undefined in the law.

The controversy surrounding the cybercrime law comes amid growing unease over a series of laws signed by President Ruto in recent weeks, including the Privatisation Bill, Land and Land Commission(amendment) Bills and National Police Service Commission (Amendment) Bill. Critics argue that the government is rushing to consolidate power while public attention is focused elsewhere.

What’s at Stake

Kenya has long been seen as a digital hub in Africa, home to a vibrant tech ecosystem and outspoken online community. The new cyber law could reshape that landscape, redefining what it means to be a content creator, journalist, or even a regular internet user.

Civil society groups warn that the law’s implementation could also deter whistleblowers and journalists from publishing critical stories out of fear of prosecution.

The petitioners are urging the courts to act swiftly, saying that the law, if left unchecked, could roll back more than a decade of progress in digital freedoms and civic engagement.

“We’re not against cybersecurity,” said Nyakundi in his statement.

“We’re against laws that criminalise being Kenyan online.”

As the case heads to court, the outcome will likely set a major precedent, determining whether Kenya’s expanding digital economy will continue to thrive under openness or retreat under state control.