Amberay Sparks National Debate with Strong Support for Cybercrime Amendment Bill
Amberay, a well-known Kenyan socialite and influencer, has sparked significant public debate after publicly supporting the controversial Cybercrime Amendment Bill through her Instagram post.
Amberay’s endorsement has resonated with many, especially since she has personally faced cyberbullying and severe online criticism, emphasizing the need for digital accountability in the face of rampant online abuse.
She stated, “I support the passing of the Cybercrime Amendment Bill. Freedom of speech should never be an excuse for cruelty, defamation, or disrespect,”
She argues that the bill is a vital step towards protecting individuals from targeted digital harassment and misuse of online platforms.
The bill introduces tougher penalties for offenses such as cyberbullying, identity theft, revenge porn, and spreading false information, aiming to modernize Kenya’s legal framework against emerging online threats .
Her stance has been supported by other celebrities who believe the legislation helps set clear boundaries between free speech and online abuse, particularly for vulnerable women in the public eye.
However, the bill has also drawn strong criticism from digital rights activists and journalists who fear vague wording could open the law to misuse and suppress legitimate freedom of expression, leading to potential censorship.
This division has polarized public opinion in Kenya, with some lauding Amberay’s call for responsible online behavior, while others warn against legislative overreach that could undermine democratic freedoms.
Amberay’s vocal support thus continues to fuel an important national conversation about balancing free speech with protecting citizens from digital harm.
This reflects a growing dialogue on the complexities of regulating cyberspace while safeguarding personal rights in Kenya’s evolving digital landscape