Kesses Member of Parliament CPA Julius Rutto has defended President Dr. William Ruto for signing into law the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, saying the legislation is critical in safeguarding responsible use of social media and digital platforms.
CPA Rutto dismissed criticism directed at the President, noting that the law was not intended to suppress freedom of expression but to promote order, peace and accountability in the digital space.
“The law is very clear. We are living in an era of technology and information, and Kenya cannot afford to lag behind. But with these advances, we have also witnessed misuse of social media to threaten, insult and destroy people’s lives,” said Rutto.
The legislator condemned individuals who use online platforms to spread hate, falsehoods and incitement, citing recent cases where some users shared offensive and misleading content targeting national leaders.
“Just recently, some people went as far as posting about leaders’ death and celebrating. That is not the kind of society we want,” he added.
He explained that the Act addresses critical issues such as cyberbullying, online fraud, SIM swapping, child pornography, and the use of digital platforms to promote terrorism or hate speech.
Rutto said the law provides a clear framework for handling such crimes, which had previously been difficult to prosecute due to legal gaps.
“We must protect citizens from online harassment and extortion. Some people have lost their lives because of cyberbullying and blackmail. As a society, we cannot allow that,” he emphasized.
The MP noted that the law empowers the Communications Authority of Kenya to block websites that spread harmful or immoral content, especially those exposing minors to explicit material.
He clarified that the legislation does not prohibit citizens from criticizing the government, as long as such criticism is constructive and respectful.
“Constructive criticism is allowed. But if the internet is misused to spread hate, divide communities or promote terrorism, we will not accept that,” said Rutto.
He further urged Kenyans to support the President in implementing laws that uphold national values, peace and morality, emphasizing the need to embrace African virtues of respecting elders and protecting the young as the foundation of a just and cohesive society.
CPA Rutto’s sentiments come barely a week after President William Ruto 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 on, a move that drew criticism from sections of the public and opposition leaders.
While speaking at Thome village in Laikipia County 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 as part of his official duties. He also cautioned against misinformation and disinformation regarding the bill.
Rutto made the remarks during the handover of the Moi University Water Project to the contractor in Kesses Sub-County, Uasin Gishu County, where he said the initiative marks a major step towards ensuring residents of Kesses Constituency and neighbouring areas access clean and reliable water.
The project, to be implemented by the North Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency (NRVWWDA), is expected to enhance water supply and improve living standards in the region.
Rutto commended the agency’s commitment to delivering the project and pledged to remain steadfast in transforming Kesses through impactful, sustainable development initiatives.
Present during the event were NRVWWDA Chief Executive Officer Edwin Rotich and representatives from the Uasin Gishu County Government and the Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company Limited (ELDOWAS).
By Fredrick Maritim
