President Uhuru Kenyatta on Friday sounded a fresh warning to social media users in Kenya against misuse of the platform.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, during the Presidential Round Table Forum follow-up meeting, Uhuru reminded social media users that fake and defamatory messages will no longer be tolerated.
"We will deal with those who malign others on social media. They will not be spared," the Head of State warned.
[caption caption="Uhuru speaking during the Presidential Round Table Forum meeting"]
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Uhuru further reiterated his dedication to fighting corruption indicating that: "We are also going to deal ruthlessly with corruption both real and perceived."
His sentiments came days after he assented the controversial Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Bill, 2018 into law.
Section 12 of the Computer Misuse Law warns that: "A person who intentionally publishes false, misleading or fictitious data or misinforms with the intent that the data shall be considered or acted upon as authentic, with or without any financial gain, commits an offence."
The evolving digital landscape has seen people spread fake information with the intention of maligning others on social media.
However, according to the new legislation, persons found culpable of such deeds will be liable to a fine not exceeding Ksh 5million or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to both.
A recent incident was the spreading of fake news about the collapse of River Gucha bridge where it was falsely reported that Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua was taking selfies when the bridge collapsed.
[caption caption="Uhuru with Trade Cabinet Secretary Adan Mohamed"]
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Following the news, Mutua recorded a statement with the CID at Ogembo Police Station seeking action against the journalist behind that story.
