President Ruto under fire to repeal cybercrime law as critics warn of online censorship, vague penalties and abuse

President William Ruto is facing mounting pressure to repeal the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, amid growing fears that the new law could be used to silence dissent and restrict online freedoms.

Lawyer Miguna Miguna on Monday, October 20, questioned whether the Head of State would reconsider the legislation, which he signed into law on the same day former Prime Minister Raila Odinga passed away. His comments have reignited public debate and calls for protests against what many see as an attempt to tighten state control over digital spaces.

The law, passed alongside seven other controversial Bills, has drawn criticism over its vague definitions and sweeping powers granted to the government. Among the most contentious clauses are those allowing authorities to block websites, remove online content, or shut down digital platforms powers rights advocates say could be abused to stifle freedom of expression, investigative journalism, and political criticism.

Analysts have also raised concerns about the severity of penalties under the Act. For instance, individuals found guilty of cyber harassment face fines of up to KSh20 million, imprisonment for up to ten years, or both a punishment many have labelled excessive and disproportionate.

Critics further argue that the use of ambiguous terms such as “grossly offensive,” “likely to cause fear,” or “promote illegal activities” leaves the law open to manipulation and selective enforcement.

In addition to the cybercrime law, President Ruto also assented to several other Bills on October 15, including the Privatisation Bill (2025), National Land Commission (Amendment) Bill (2023), Land (Amendment) Bill (2024), Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill (2025), Air Passenger Service Charge (Amendment) Bill (2025), Wildlife Conservation and Management (Amendment) Bill (2024), and the National Police Service Commission (Amendment) Bill (2024).

Miguna also called for accountability over the chaos that erupted during the public viewing of Raila Odinga’s body at Kasarani Stadium, where police reportedly used tear gas and live bullets to control crowds.

The late opposition leader, who died aged 80 while receiving treatment in India, was laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, at his family home in Kang’o ka Jaramogi, Siaya County. His State Funeral, complete with military honours, followed a week of national mourning declared by President Ruto.

As debate around the cybercrime law intensifies, civil society groups and digital rights defenders are urging the government to revisit the legislation to ensure it protects both national security and citizens’ online freedoms.