The Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Moses Wetang’ula, asked Kenyans to be responsible while using the social media, emphasizing the importance of adhering to laws governing digital communication.
Speaking at the memorial service of his late mother, Annah Nanyama Wetang’ula, in Mukhweya village, Bungoma County, the Speaker highlighted the dangers of cyber abuse and called for strict enforcement of Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, 2018.
The event, attended by prominent national leaders including Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, provided a platform for leaders to address critical societal challenges while celebrating the life of a community matriarch.
Kenya’s Cybercrime Law: A Background
The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, 2018 was enacted to address growing concerns over digital misconduct, including cyberbullying, identity theft, and the spread of false information.
The law criminalizes acts such as publishing false information, unauthorized access to computer systems, cyber harassment, and child pornography.
Although initially challenged in court, the Act was upheld in 2019, reinforcing the government’s ability to prosecute offenders.
Critics of the law have often argued that it could stifle free speech, but its proponents emphasize that it provides essential safeguards against harmful digital practices that threaten personal and national security.
In recent years, Kenya has witnessed an increase in cyber-related crimes, including the misuse of social media platforms to propagate hate speech, spread disinformation, and incite violence.
This trend prompted leaders like Wetang’ula to advocate for responsible online behavior and greater awareness of the legal consequences of cyber abuse.
Speaker’s Call for Decency and Accountability
Addressing mourners, Wetang’ula reiterated the need for Kenyans to use social media responsibly, noting its dual role as a powerful communication tool and a potential source of harm.
“Social media is a very good medium of communication, but it’s also a bad medium if we abuse it,” Wetang’ula warned.
He added: “Those who misuse it to spread hatred, wish harm on others, or commit crimes are liable under enforceable laws. We must protect our society and ensure Kenya lives decently.”
The Speaker contrasted Kenya’s approach with that of Australia, which recently prohibited children under 16 from accessing social media to protect them from harmful content. While Kenya may not adopt such measures, Wetang’ula emphasized the importance of responsible online conduct.
Leaders Unite to Tackle Cybercrime
Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah supported Wetang’ula’s stance, challenging the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to fully implement the provisions of the Cybercrimes Act.
“People who misuse computers and artificial intelligence to insult, defame, or mislead others must face the consequences. Let the law be a deterrent,” Ichung’wah stated.
He also condemned individuals feigning abductions for political mileage, terming it a misuse of public resources.
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen encouraged families with genuine cases of missing persons to report to authorities promptly, assuring them of government support.
Minority Leader Hon. Junet Mohamed echoed the need for unity and called on Kenyans to reject divisive rhetoric on digital platforms.
Celebrating a Life of Impact
The memorial service honored the late Annah Nanyama Wetang’ula as a pillar of her family and community.
Speaker Wetang’ula described her as a source of wisdom and strength, whose legacy of kindness and resilience left a lasting impact.
Notable attendees included Principal Secretary for Industry Dr. Juma Mukhwana, Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli, and MPs Tindi Mwale (Butere), Caroline Ng’elechei (Elgeyo Marakwet), Didmus Barasa (Kimilili), and Fred Kapondi (Mt. Elgon), alongside Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge.
As the memorial united leaders across political divides, the event served as both a tribute to a remarkable life and a reminder of the urgent need to foster decency and accountability in Kenya’s digital landscape.
The late Mama Annah Nanyama Wetang’ula will be laid to rest on 3rd January 2025 at her family home in Mukhweya village, Bungoma County.
