Kenyans Posting Fake News Online Face Sh5 Million Fine, 2-year Prison Term

Kenyans publishing false news or sharing indecent videos online could now face a 2-year prison term or a fine of up to Sh5 million if President Kenyatta assents to the Computer and Cybercrime Bill.

The Bill was passed by the National Assembly last week on Thursday and was sent to President Uhuru for signing. The law seeks to curb publication of fake, misleading or fictitious information.

 Majority Leader in the National Assembly Aden Duale said the Bill will address impunity on the social media should President Uhuru sign it into law.

“There are people who acted and behaved with impunity, but this law will deal with them upon assent,” Duale said according to Nairobi News.

He added: “This bill will deal with those who create fake news. This bill will deal with those who use technology in the wrong way, like what happened to the Deputy Governor of Kirinyaga.”

“This bill will deal with those guys who make people die 10 times when they are still alive.”

In addition, anyone found sharing pornographic content online will be liable to Sh300, 000 fine or 30years in jail.