Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura during a press briefing at Harambee Annex in Nairobi.
By Aoma Keziah,
The Government has responded to recent public debate surrounding the eight Bills assented to by President William Ruto last week, saying the process followed all legal and constitutional requirements.
Speaking at the Harambee Annex on Thursday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the signing of the Bills had been carefully scheduled to meet strict timelines set out by law and international agreements. He dismissed suggestions that the process was rushed, noting that it was part of normal government procedure meant to ensure continuity in public administration.
“The amendments to the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act were not designed to limit freedom of expression but to protect Kenyans from online threats. The rise in cyberbullying, digital fraud, and child exploitation made it necessary for the law to evolve and give law enforcement the tools to respond effectively,” he explained.
On environmental matters, he pointed to the Wildlife Conservation and Management (Amendment) Act, which now allows compensation for coastal communities affected by marine animal attacks, including sharks and stingrays.
“This is about fairness and acknowledging that conservation efforts must also protect livelihoods,” Mwaura stated
The Privatisation Act, which has drawn some criticism, was also defended by the spokesperson. He explained that the new law actually introduces stronger checks and balances.
“No public asset can be sold without parliamentary approval. Transparency measures have been expanded to prevent abuse,” he added.
On land reforms, Mwaura said the amendments to the Land Act and the National Land Commission Act will help secure public land meant for schools, hospitals, and other social amenities.
“We have seen how easily such land can be grabbed. This law now closes that loophole,” he noted.
He further said that the National Police Service Commission (Amendment) Act will help address mental health challenges among officers by establishing counselling and psychosocial support units in every county.
“This is about caring for those who serve us,” the government spokesperson continued to say.
The changes in the Air Passenger Service Charge Act, according to Mwaura, are meant to improve efficiency by merging tourism funds and ensuring that levies collected go directly into development projects that benefit the sector.
On the economic front, he described the Virtual Asset Service Providers Act as a landmark law that will regulate cryptocurrency and virtual assets in Kenya. He said this will help protect investors and enhance Kenya’s reputation as a financial innovation hub. It also responds to international requirements for transparency in financial transactions, a step towards removing Kenya from the FATF “grey list.”
He further announced that President Ruto will lead the launch of the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme on October 27 in Kuresoi North, Nakuru County. The Sh21.5 billion initiative will run for ten years and aims to restore the Mau Forest, which supports 12 major rivers and millions of livelihoods across the country.
In conclusion, he urged young people to take part in the ongoing Entrepreneurship Aptitude Test ahead of the NYOTA Validation Exercise on October 24. He explained that the test will help gauge the readiness and potential of youth seeking to benefit from government enterprise programmes.
“This is an opportunity for our young people to discover their strengths and prepare for the future,” Mwaura concluded.
Similar Posts by Aoma Keziah:
- Nationwide Youth Business Drive Enters Last Lap With New Nyota Trainings
- Green Light From Washington Sets G42 On Fast Track to Build Region’s Most Powerful AI Network
- Safina Eyes Kariobangi North Seat in Intensified Push Before Poll Day
- KEBS Opens Talks With Manufacturers On New Standards Levy Order 2025
- Kenya, Uganda And South Sudan Chart Way Forward On East Africa Rail Corridor