This archive report was first published on 29 June 2021.
Published on June 29, 2021, a proposed bill by Malava Member of Parliament Malulu Injedi could soon require Kenyan social media managers and bloggers to obtain licenses.
The Communications Authority of Kenya would be responsible for monitoring online discussions and posts, and those found guilty of violating the rules could face up to two years in jail or a fine of KSh 500,000.
According to the bill, social media users would be required to ensure that any content published does not degrade or intimidate recipients, and bloggers would need to register with the regulator's bloggers' Registry.
Those who manage social media platforms, including WhatsApp, would also be required to obtain a license from the Communications Authority of Kenya before creating any online content.
The proposed bill aims to hold people responsible for the content shared on online forums, but critics argue that it could curb freedom of speech.
