Speaking in Laikipia County during the funeral of Weston Kerocho, the father of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, the President said the law will help curb the rising cases of online harassment, pornography, and cyberbullying.
“Our children are being terrorized on social media, which has led to depression and, in some cases, death by suicide,” Ruto stated.
“We cannot allow the internet to become a space that destroys the lives of our young people.”
The President noted that the government has a duty to ensure that digital spaces remain safe for communication, education, and innovation.
He added that the new measures are not aimed at silencing criticism but at promoting responsibility and accountability online.
The signing of the cybercrimes law came on the same day the nation was mourning the passing of Raila Odinga, which sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans.
While some citizens supported the law as a necessary step toward regulating harmful online behavior, others viewed the timing as insensitive.
The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act seeks to strengthen penalties for offenses such as sharing false information, cyber harassment, identity theft, and publishing indecent content.
Ruto emphasized that his administration remains committed to safeguarding freedom of expression but insisted that such freedom must be exercised with responsibility.
“This law is about protecting dignity, not limiting voices,” he said.
The amended legislation is expected to take effect immediately after publication in the Kenya Gazette.
