By:Rhoda Bogeta
https://youtu.be/Czolz3no5PM?si=WMUDjIOMrDFKAaBA
A youth group has filed a constitutional petition at the Milimani Law Courts challenging the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, which was assented to by President William Ruto on October 15, 2025.
Francis Awino, the national youth leader and head of VibeTribe Kenya, said the new law violates fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution, particularly Article 35, which provides for access to information.
Speaking to the media outside the court, Awino said they had resorted to diplomatic means to present their petition, noting that the Act curtails citizens’ freedoms.
He urged Kenyans to remain hopeful, expressing determination to safeguard the country’s democratic space.
“I’d rather die than watch my children suffer from what I could have prevented when I had the chance,” Awino said.
VibeTribe Kenya Deputy President Antony Karumba said the group has consistently advocated for good governance and was now in court to challenge the controversial amendments, which he said infringe on freedom of expression.
“Freedom of speech is not just a right but a test. If it only protects popular opinion, then it’s not freedom,” Karumba said.
He added that the group would pursue all constitutional and lawful avenues to ensure that the rights of Kenyans are not undermined by those in power.
VibeTribe coordinator Joshua cited Articles 33 and 35 of the Constitution, which protect freedom of expression and access to information, respectively.
He said the youth rely heavily on social media to express their views and grievances, and the new law threatens that space.
“We shall not relent until this oppressive law is repealed,” Joshua stated.
