This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
September 24, 2019, could be a significant date for Kenyans who use social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook.
A Bill sponsored by Malava MP Moses Injendi seeks to have administrators of these platforms acquire licenses from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) and pay a prescribed fee.
According to the Bill, the Communications Authority may grant a license to establish a social media platform upon application and payment of a fee.
Group administrators will also 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.'
Failure to comply with these provisions could result in a fine of up to Ksh. 200,000 or a one-year imprisonment.
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.
Posting information deemed unfair, inaccurate, and biased by a court of law could also lead to a jail term or fine.
