A human rights activist has filed a petition in court challenging the recently assented Cybercrime (Amendment) Bill, arguing that it infringes on the constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression.
The activist, Francis Awino, claims the Bill, passed by Parliament and later signed into law by President William Ruto following the demise of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, is designed to suppress public discourse, particularly on social media platforms.
Awino argues that unless the court intervenes to suspend the implementation of the amended law, many Kenyans, especially members of the Gen Z generation, risk arbitrary arrest and prosecution for expressing their views online.
In his petition, Awino contends that the Bill contravenes Article 33 of the Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression.
He is seeking conservatory orders to halt the implementation of the contested provisions pending the determination of the case.
The respondents listed in the suit include the Parliament of Kenya, the Attorney General, the National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee, and the Inspector General of Police.
Awino is joined in the petition by Antony Karumba, the Deputy President of Vibes Tribes, and Joshua Nyadom, the organization’s National Coordinator.
The case has been assigned to Justice Bahati Mwamuye, who is expected to issue directions.
