Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has rejected assertions that the National Assembly plans to prohibit TikTok in Kenya, clarifying that the current motion in Parliament aims to regulate content and protect young users rather than eliminate the platform entirely.
“The motion before Parliament is not about banning TikTok. It is about regulating content and addressing reckless use while preserving the platform’s positive functions,” Wetang’ula clarified.
This discussion emerged following concerns voiced by various stakeholders, including Catholic bishops, who advocated for measures to prevent TikTok from being used for pornography, sexual offenses, or other detrimental activities that might impact young audiences.
Wetang’ula underscored that Parliament bears both legal and ethical obligations to protect children, families, and the general public from content that might promote moral or social harm.
Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi noted that several nations, particularly in Europe, have established regulations for social media platforms to safeguard minors, maintain data protection standards, and manage online content.
She also indicated that the Communications Authority of Kenya should register major social media operators and ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
She explained that structured oversight was crucial to prevent issues stemming from uncontrolled content online.
“It can be used very well to do very many good things for the country. But at the same time, it cannot be an advertisement platform where at night, I put it on and decide, now it is my time to do all the pornography that I would want and yet you know very well, tomorrow, that same space, any person can still find it,” she stated.
She also added that the objective is to make TikTok secure, in an effort to protect the nation.
She referenced explicit material that appeared on TikTok as an example that revealed weaknesses in the current regulatory system.
Wetang’ula’s clarification comes amid false information circulating on social media suggesting a complete ban on TikTok.
The Speaker reiterated that the government’s primary focus is ensuring the appropriate use of digital platforms while protecting children and public safety.