Data Protection Commissioner to adopt Alternative Dispute Resolution Framework

Nairobi, Tuesday, May 16, 2023

KNA by Susan Wanjiru and Daisy Masinde

The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has undertaken to implement the Alternative Dispute Resolution Framework which anticipates to resolve disputes quickly hence reduce the number of complaints lodged and time taken to arbitrate matters.

Speaking at Sarova hotel in Nairobi on Tuesday, Data Protection Commissioner Immaculate Kassait noted that the ODPC grants power to the data commissioner to facilitate conciliation, mediation and negotiation of disputes which arise from the Act and added that the alternative dispute resolution framework has been developed as a guide to the general public on settling of disputes.

“As a regulator, we regulate the processing of personal data by the data controller and the data processor. A controller is the person who collects personal information,” said Kassait.

The Data Protection Commissioner highlighted the need for persons or institutions who collect personal data to do so lawfully that is when undertaking the registration process, complaints procedure and data transfer process.

Kassait said her office will collaborate the Media Council of Kenya to sensitize journalists on matters to do with data protection which includes the Data Protection Act, 2019.

“The mandate of the office of the data protection commissioner is outlined in the data protection Act no 24 of 2019 which is considered one of the most progressive data privacy laws in Africa,” said Kassait.

The Data Commissioner expounded on the roles and responsibilities for all data controllers and processors in Kenya or those processing data touching on data subjects in Kenya as well as vigorous provisions on the proper handling of personal data to ensure the rights of data users are protected.

Media Council of Kenya (CEO) David Omwoyo disclosed that the Media Council Act was established to regulate the media practice and discipline of journalists in Kenya.

He also emphasized on the essence of accreditation of journalists, registration of media houses and proper handling of complaints from the public. 

Omwoyo also urged journalists to adhere to the code of conduct under the practice of journalism in Kenya.

Omwoyo stressed the right to privacy, under code 14 of the 2013 and 2019 laws and the crucial roles played by the Media Complaints Commission which protects the confidentiality of sources.

Courtesy; K.N.A