Kenyan Bill Sparks Debate: Internet Freedom vs. State Surveillance

Kenya: New Bill Raises Concerns Over Internet Access and State Surveillance NAIROBI, Kenya — A proposed bill in Kenya is sparking debate over its potential impact on internet access and government surveillance. Victor Ndede, Tech and Human Rights Manager at Amnesty International, warns that the bill is a "Trojan horse" that could significantly restrict digital rights. The bill centers around the issuing and potential withdrawal of meter numbers for internet access. "If a telecom company refuses to assign you a meter number, you effectively lose access to the internet," Ndede explains. This, he argues, represents a serious access issue. Ndede further points out the bill's implications for state surveillance. "This bill opens up a whole new world of surveillance opportunities for the state," he says. His concerns are amplified by the vast amount of data held by internet service providers (ISPs) and the government. The potential for misuse of this data is a major point of contention. The discussion also highlights the recent cyberattacks on government systems, underscoring the vulnerability of sensitive information. The situation underscores the need for careful consideration of the bill's potential consequences for both individual rights and national security. The debate continues as Kenyans weigh the benefits and risks of this potentially transformative legislation.