The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by President William Ruto on October 15, 2025, and temporarily halted by the High Court on October 22, 2025, has sparked a nationwide debate over online conduct and digital responsibility. The law introduces strict penalties, most notably enhancing Section 27 on cyber harassment to carry fines of up to Sh20 million, a 10-year jail term, or both. It also targets false information, indecent communication, and harmful digital behaviour.
Several public figures have voiced support for parts of the Act. Socialite Amber Ray praised the amendment, noting that social media misuse has contributed to broken families. She highlighted that freedom of expression carries responsibility and stressed that digital platforms should not be used to exercise cruelty, defamation, or disrespect. “For once, I genuinely support a decision by the government—the passing of the Cybercrime Amendment Bill. And I say this not out of blind loyalty, but from a place of deep reflection and personal conviction,” Amber said. She urged Kenyans to respect online boundaries, comparing digital conduct to obeying road laws, and emphasised that the amendment aims to protect voices, not silence them.
Comedian Oga Obinna has also endorsed key provisions, particularly Section 19, which imposes up to two years in prison for publishing misleading or unverified information on platforms like TikTok and Facebook. He criticised bloggers spreading harmful content for views or malice, describing such actions as slander. Obinna further supports Section 22, targeting rude or indecent communication, and highlighted the manipulation of data to fuel cyberbullying. While backing these measures, he called for refining the Act to remove provisions that allow arbitrary device access but insisted core elements remain to promote online accountability.
Comedian YY has backed the anti-cyberbullying provisions, asserting that offenders deserve consequences, including jail time. He highlighted growing insensitivity among Kenyans, arguing that online harassment has escalated unchecked and critics of the law risk enabling harmful behaviour. “If you’re bullying, just go to prison. Kuna mtu anafaa atetee bullying?” he stated, urging accountability in digital spaces.
The endorsements reflect a public segment prioritising protections against digital harms while balancing freedom of expression. Amber Ray noted the human cost of online abuse, saying, “Screens have given many the illusion of power without consequence, forgetting that behind every profile is a real human being with emotions, dignity, and a story.” She stressed that decency should extend online, urging Kenyans to build a digital space that is expressive, passionate, yet respectful and kind.
The Cybercrimes Amendment Act continues to spark debate, with supporters calling for responsible online behaviour and critics challenging certain provisions in court. Public figures like Amber Ray, Oga Obinna, and YY have positioned themselves as voices for accountability, emphasising that freedom of speech is powerful but must be exercised with conscience and care.
