Thursday, November
13, 2025 - The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has raised
serious concerns over the swift passage of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes
(Amendment) Act and the Land Amendment Act No. 21 of 2025.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Bishops warned that
the laws could be weaponized to suppress dissent and infringe on civil
liberties.
They urged President William Ruto’s administration to review
the legislation and ensure meaningful public participation.
“We strongly recommend a necessary review lest they be
abused to curtail the very freedom they ought to protect.”
“Meaningful public participation would be necessary,” the
statement read.
Led by KCCB Chairperson Rev. Maurice Muhatia Makumba, the Bishops
specifically cautioned that the cybercrime law could be used to silence
critics, violate privacy, and manipulate electoral processes.
“It seems that the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes
(Amendment) Act can be used to silence Government critics,” they warned.
While acknowledging the need for responsible online conduct,
the Bishops defended citizens’ right to free expression.
“We have always called on the public, especially the youth,
to use civil language…”
“Nevertheless, they should not be intimidated from
expressing themselves.”
The Bishops further warned that bypassing public input risks
eroding trust in Government and called for clarity on who the laws are meant to
target.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
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