Kenyan bishops demand revisions to controversial cybercrime and land laws, citing threats to free speech and public trust, while praising new health reforms.
Newsroom (14/11/2025 Gaudium Press )The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has issued a clarion call for the government to heed widespread public concerns over recent amendments to two laws, warning that the legislation risks eroding civil liberties and public trust. In a strongly worded statement titled “Building a Kenya of Hope and Justice: Our Civic Duty,” the bishops criticized the “Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendments) Act” 2025 and the “Land Amendment Act No. 21 of 2025,” both enacted by Parliament and signed into law by President William Ruto on October 15, 2025.
The bishops expressed alarm at the “manner and haste” with which the laws were drafted and promulgated, echoing anxieties voiced by Kenyan citizens. The amendments to the 2018 Cybersecurity Act, now updated through the 2025 Cybercrime Act, have sparked particular concern for their potential to curtail freedom of expression. The bishops warned that the revised law “could be used to silence criticism of the government, undermine the right to defense against government abuse, or even manipulate the electoral process.” Such measures, they argued, threaten the democratic fabric of the nation.
The Land Amendment Act, which establishes a public land registry, has also drawn scrutiny. While the bishops did not elaborate on specific provisions, they emphasized that the lack of robust public participation in the legislative process for both laws risks rendering them “counterproductive.” “Without careful and meaningful public participation, the laws risk being counterproductive and damaging public trust in the government,” the statement read.
The KCCB urged lawmakers to revise the amendments to address these concerns, stressing that the fears of Kenyans “must not be ignored.” They called for corrective action to ensure the laws align with principles of justice and civic freedom.
In addition to the cybercrime and land laws, the bishops raised concerns about a proposed draft law on religious organizations. While acknowledging the need for some regulatory measures, they cautioned that the government must avoid any perception of attempting to control religious institutions. “The government should never give the impression that it is trying to regulate religion,” the bishops stated, underscoring the delicate balance between oversight and religious freedom.
On a positive note, the bishops commended the establishment of the Social Health Authority (SHA), which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) in 2024. The SHA’s new health program has enabled many Kenyans to access treatment at various hospitals, including Catholic-run facilities. “The benefits of the SHA’s new health program are widely recognized,” the bishops noted, expressing gratitude for the expanded access to healthcare.
However, they highlighted a critical challenge: delayed payments to state-approved health facilities. The bishops warned that the sustainability of the SHA program is at risk if hospitals are not promptly and adequately compensated for their services. According to Kenya’s Minister of Health, the NHIF’s legacy debt has placed a heavy financial burden on healthcare providers, with several private, public, and religious hospitals facing closure due to unpaid bills. The bishops called for urgent action to address this crisis and ensure the continued viability of the healthcare system.
The KCCB’s statement reflects a broader call for transparency, accountability, and public engagement in governance. By addressing contentious legislative changes and healthcare challenges, the bishops have positioned themselves as advocates for a just and equitable Kenya. As the nation grapples with these issues, the government faces mounting pressure to respond to the concerns of both its citizens and influential institutions like the Catholic Church.
The bishops’ plea underscores a pivotal moment for Kenya, where the balance between security, freedom, and public welfare hangs in the balance. Whether the government will heed their call for revision and reform remains to be seen, but the message is clear: the voices of Kenyans must shape the nation’s future.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Fides news
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