Ruto Speaks Out After Court Stops Enforcement of New Cybercrime Law
President William Ruto has finally spoken about the controversial amendments to the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act (2024), saying the changes were made to protect the interests of all Kenyans and not to target anyone unfairly.
Speaking on Thursday, October 23, during the burial ceremony of Inspector General Douglas Kanja’s father, President Ruto accused some political leaders of spreading lies and creating unnecessary political tension over the new cybercrime amendments.
Ruto clarified that the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act was not a new law, explaining that it was first introduced in 2018 and that only a few sections had been adjusted or improved in 2024.
According to him, the amendments were meant to strengthen online safety, especially for the youth who have increasingly become victims of cyberbullying, hate speech, and exposure to harmful online content.
He highlighted the growing problem of young people taking their own lives after facing online harassment and humiliation. “There are those who make a business out of insulting and bullying others on the internet.
Many young people are now committing suicide because of the kind of terrorism and abuse happening online,” Ruto said.
The President also dismissed claims that his government was trying to push the amendments secretly or take advantage of sensitive national events. He emphasized that the changes were discussed and passed by Members of the National Assembly long before reaching his desk for signing.
“There are individuals who are determined to create chaos at any cost. This law has been around since 2018. The amendments began in 2024, and they were debated and approved by Members of Parliament,” he explained.
Responding to critics who accused him of signing the bill on the same day the former Prime Minister passed away, Ruto said the signing process had already been scheduled and could not be postponed. “It is my constitutional duty to sign bills into law.
That day, I was already set to sign it when I received news of the former Prime Minister’s death. It was not possible to halt the process,” he clarified.
Ruto’s statement came just hours after the High Court temporarily suspended the implementation of the amended Cybercrime Act, halting its enforcement until a full hearing is conducted.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi, on Wednesday, October 22, issued the order following a petition filed by former presidential candidate Ruben Kigame and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). The petitioners argued that some sections of the amendments violated constitutional rights and posed a threat to freedom of expression.
In his ruling, Justice Mugambi directed that the application and supporting documents be physically served to all parties involved within three days. He further instructed that proof of service be filed in court as the case proceeds to a full hearing.
The temporary suspension means the government cannot enforce or implement the new cybercrime amendments until the court determines whether they comply with the Constitution.
Ruto, however, maintained that his administration remains committed to ensuring online safety, responsible internet use, and protection of Kenyans from digital harm, emphasizing that the changes were meant to protect, not silence, citizens.
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