President William Ruto has defended his decision to sign into law the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Bill, 2024, on October 15, 2025—the same day former Prime Minister Raila Odinga passed away, a move that drew criticism from sections of the public and opposition leaders.
Speaking during the burial of the father to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, the President dismissed claims that the timing of the signing was insensitive or politically motivated, saying the process had already been scheduled and was part of his official duties for the day.
“I woke up on Wednesday, and the signing was my work for the day—it is a constitutional mandate,” Ruto said.
“I was to sign because the Bill had passed all stages and had been brought to me by the Speaker. But by bad luck, we lost one of our leaders.”
Ruto said he was already at the office to perform his duties before proceeding to a separate event in Ukambani related to road development.
“I was on duty just like any other citizen. There was nothing to hide—I was not doing anything at night,” he added.
The President maintained that the new cybercrime law is essential to protect Kenya from online threats, emphasizing that the amendments are aimed at curbing cyber harassment, digital fraud, and extremist propaganda.
“We are doing the right thing for Kenya. We want to protect our young people and the security of our country from situations that undermine our well-being,” Ruto said.
He urged critics to focus on facts and allow the country to move forward, insisting that the amendments had been under consideration since 2024.
“Kenya must stand up to those who are using the digital space to spread terrorism. And we must say the truth—there are people who want to destroy Kenya by all means,” he remarked.
The President’s remarks come amid ongoing debate over the timing and content of the new laws, which include several controversial bills signed on the same day.
Some Members of Parliament have since defended Ruto’s decision, saying the signing was part of normal government procedure and should not be politicised.
The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, now under legal challenge, expands definitions of cyber harassment and online misconduct—provisions that rights groups argue could infringe on free speech.
The High Court has since issued conservatory orders suspending sections of the law pending the determination of a constitutional petition filed by the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and activist Reuben Kigame.
