The government has moved to clarify the circumstances surrounding President William Ruto’s signing of eight bills last week, a move that has sparked public debate across the country.
Speaking on Thursday, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura said the presidential assent was part of a pre-planned and legally required process to meet constitutional and procedural timelines.
He explained that the exercise was neither abrupt nor politically motivated, but a scheduled step following the passage of the bills by the National Assembly.
“The presentation of the Bills for assent was pre-arranged and scheduled to ensure compliance with strict constitutional, statutory and procedural timelines, international commitments and conditions,” Dr. Mwaura stated.
Among the laws signed by the President is the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, which has drawn criticism from sections of the public over fears it could limit freedom of expression. However, Dr. Mwaura defended the amendments, saying they are aimed at strengthening Kenya’s ability to tackle emerging digital threats, not silencing dissent.
He said the new law seeks to combat offences such as child pornography, online extremism, terrorism propaganda, cyber harassment, identity theft, and financial fraud, adding that the amendments provide safeguards rather than unchecked powers to state agencies.
Turning to the Privatization Act, Dr. Mwaura said the updated legislation enhances transparency by requiring the publication of proposed privatization methods whether through Initial Public Offers (IPOs), public tenders, or pre-emptive rights to prevent the secret disposal of national assets.
Dr. Mwaura reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accountability and the rule of law, urging Kenyans to engage with accurate information rather than speculation surrounding the newly assented laws.
