In the wake of widespread outrage over the implementation of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act, the government has come out to address the matter.
The Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, Dennis Itumbi, on Wednesday morning clarified that the Cybercrime Act was not a new law, stating that it was first signed into law in 2018 by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
"Let me explain something before the noise clouds the facts. The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Law is not new. It was signed into law by President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018. Specifically, May 16, 2018," Itumbi noted.
Itumbi noted that just like the current outrage, the Act witnessed a similar public resentment in 2018, prompting a legal battle between the government and three unions.
According to Itumbi, the Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE), Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ), and Law Society of Kenya (LSK) moved to court to challenge its implementation.
He noted that the High Court heard the arguments raised by the petitioners but upheld the Cybercrime Act's implementation, terming it constitutional. The ruling granted leeway for the Act's implementation.
However, the three unions disagreed with the ruling and moved to the Court of Appeal to challenge the High Court's decision.
"As recent as September 2025, the Court of Appeal heard submissions from lawyers and gave directions to the effect that a judgment on the issue will be rendered in February 2026," Itumbi stated.
While clarifying the new Act, Itumbi reiterated that what Ruto signed into law were amendments aimed at tightening loopholes in the existing law, further dismissing claims that the bill was government-sponsored.
Meanwhile, Itumbi's clarification comes amidst widespread public resentment over the Cybercrime Bill signed into law by President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi on Wednesday, October 15.
Among those who have come out to protest against the Act are former Chief Justice David Maraga, who has termed the piece of legislation a betrayal of Kenyans.
Addressing the press on Tuesday, October 21, Maraga argued that the new law, which gives the government authority over people's digital activities, opened doors for censorship, and political manipulation.
