Catholic Bishops Warn Against Rushed Cybercrime Law, Cite Threats to Civil Liberties

The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has voiced alarm over what it described as the hasty enactment of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act and the Land Amendment Act No. 21 of 2025, warning that the laws could be exploited to suppress civil freedoms

In a statement on Thursday, the bishops urged the government to review the contentious laws and ensure meaningful public participation, saying citizens’ fears should not be dismissed

“We strongly recommend a necessary review lest they be abused to curtail the very freedom they ought to protect,” the bishops said. “Meaningful public participation would be necessary. The fears Kenyans have expressed regarding these new laws should not be brushed off”

The bishops cautioned that certain provisions in the cybercrime law could be used to silence government critics, invade citizens’ privacy, or influence the electoral process

“Specifically, it seems that the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act can be used to silence government critics, to abuse the right to privacy, or even to manipulate the electoral process,” said KCCB chairperson Rev. Maurice Muhatia Makumba

While affirming the need for responsible online conduct, the bishops defended freedom of expression, urging Kenyans especially the youth to engage in civic discourse without fear of intimidation.

They also warned that enacting legislation without sufficient public consultation could erode public trust in government institutions and called for the revision of problematic clauses for clarity on implementation

Turning to other national concerns, the KCCB expressed unease over the proposed Religious Organisation Bill, arguing that while regulation is necessary, the state should not appear to be controlling religion

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On education, the bishops accused the government of politicising reforms, particularly in the rollout of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), now rebranded as Competency-Based Education (CBE). They said the reforms lack clarity and proper guidance for teachers, parents, and learners

“The rationale, choices, and development of the CBC have been without clear guidance,” the bishops said. “We should not gamble with our children’s live”

They further criticised delays in payments under the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme, saying they have crippled service delivery in faith-based and private hospitals.

“Many faith-based hospitals are on the brink of closing due to unpaid claims,” they warned, urging the government to clear outstanding NHIF dues

The bishops concluded by urging Kenyans, especially the youth, to register as voters ahead of the 2027 General Election, describing voter registration as a vital step toward building a just and peaceful nation.

“Registering as a voter secures your voice and contribution, enabling Kenya to continue growing in Justice, Peace, and Unity,” the statement read

Writer : Mweru Mbugua