Dear Listers,
In my opinion, Kenya is facing a preventable crisis—one that exposes major governance failures and threatens national cybersecurity.
WHY THIS IS A CRISIS:
- Internet access is a human right – As affirmed by the UN Human Rights Council (A/HRC/32/L.20, 2016). Public officials cannot deliberately cut off access to settle financial disputes.
- A cybersecurity & economic risk – Disrupting ICT infrastructure compromises digital security, stalls businesses, and derails economic growth.
- A dangerous precedent – If this is acceptable, will we see hospitals losing water supply over unpaid fees? Roads barricaded over debts?
This is not just about money—it’s about governance, the rule of law, and national stability.
WHAT MUST HAPPEN IMMEDIATELY:
- Legal accountability – Public officials must be held responsible. Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act (2018) criminalizes ICT interference, and NC4Kenya has gazetted internet lines as critical infrastructure.
- Binding arbitration for government disputes – National infrastructure must be protected from bureaucratic feuds.
- A national ICT security protocol – The Communications Authority (CA) must establish a rapid-response mechanism to prevent reckless disruptions.
This is not just a financial dispute—it’s a governance failure that places Kenya’s digital future at risk. Public services should NEVER be used as bargaining chips.
Cybersecurity starts with responsible governance.
Stay happy,
Mutheu.
