This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
Published on September 24, 2019, a proposal by Malava MP Moses Injendi could change the way Kenyans use social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook.
The Bill aims to have administrators of these platforms acquire licenses from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) and pay a prescribed fee.
According to the Bill, administrators will be required to approve members and content using legal documents, keep user data, and submit it to authorities when required.
They will also need to ensure that group members are of the 'age of majority' and face a fine of up to Ksh. 200,000 or a one-year imprisonment term if they contravene the provision.
The proposed law also tackles online content, with Kenyans facing a Ksh. 500,000 fine or two-year jail term for posting degrading or intimidating content online.
Content that is prejudicial against race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion, political affiliation, language, ability, or appearance will also be flagged.
Additionally, posting information deemed unfair, inaccurate, and biased by a court of law will pose a risk of jail term or fine.
If passed, the Bill will require Kenyans to notify authorities before creating groups on social media platforms like Facebook, and administrators will need to approve members and content based on the law.
