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| Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor |
Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has urged Kenyans to stop rushing to condemn new laws before taking time to understand them, warning that misinformation is fueling unnecessary public panic.
Speaking on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, during a public forum to clarify the recent amendments to the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, Jalang’o admitted that he too was once guilty of quick criticism before joining Parliament.
“Even I used to sit outside Parliament and criticise everything before I read it,” Jalang’o said. “Now I’ve learned that most of the time, what’s trending online is not the full truth.”
The first-time MP said the current uproar over the cybercrime law was largely based on false information shared online, noting that the bill being discussed was not new but an amendment to a 2018 law.
“This is a 2018 Act. What Hon. Wajir MP has done is just an amendment. But if you check online, people are claiming the government wants to access your phones, fine you millions, or arrest you for fare refund jokes. Most of it is misinformation,” he explained.
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| President William Ruto signing a bill |
Jalang’o said social media rumours often distort facts, creating fear and confusion among Kenyans who rarely verify official details.
“We need to keep having these forums to explain such issues. Hata mimi nilikuwa napinga kila kitu kabla ya kusoma,” he added with a laugh.
ThThe event aimed to clarify President William Ruto’s recent signing of amendments to the cybercrime law, which has sparked heated debate.
In a separate statement on October 23, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura assured the public that the changes were meant to strengthen online safety, not to limit free speech.
“The amendments do not curtail freedom of expression or give the government unchecked power to silence dissent,” Mwaura said. “We encourage Kenyans to verify information from credible sources.”
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