There's need for amendments to the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act 2018 - PS Omollo

By Robert Mutasi

The Interior Principal Secretary, Raymond Omollo, has called for amendments to the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act 2018 to adapt to the evolving digital space.

The proposed amendments will involve modifications to certain sections of the Cybercrime Act to better regulate the performance within the digital environment.

Speaking to the press on Friday, Omollo stated that the amendments would catalyze transformations within the digital economic space.

The Principal Secretary acknowledged that cybercrime has been rampant in the digital space, with users frequently threatened, thereby making the digital environment insecure.

He pledged to collaborate with the Ministry of Information, Technology, and Communication to review the Act.

"We are in the process of reviewing the regulations that govern the operations within that space," Omollo said.

These modifications would facilitate easier government enforcement.

Furthermore, the Principal Secretary stated they will be examining the Act itself to identify parts that need amendment.

He also highlighted that the realm of cybersecurity and the digital economy are constantly evolving, and there is a need to address new trends that have emerged since 2018.

He also mentioned that they have partnered with various ministries across the government, including the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) ministry, and with the private sector.

"We are working with our colleagues in the private sector, which is also considerably advanced and developed in terms of technology," he explained.

One of the objectives of the CMCA 2018, as provided by law, is to prevent the unlawful use of computer systems. 

It also facilitates the prevention, detection, investigation, prosecution, and punishment of cybercrime. 

Additionally, the Act safeguards the rights to privacy and freedom of expression, as well as access to information, as guaranteed under the Constitution.