By Janet Nyamwamu
Parliament has commenced deliberations on a petition seeking the regulation of TikTok, with West Mugirango MP Stephen Mogaka supporting the proposal and urging lawmakers to adopt a structured regulatory framework rather than impose an outright ban on the platform.
Contributing to debate on the report by the National Assembly Petitions Committee, Mogaka lauded the committee’s work, describing its findings as thorough and timely.
He said the 13th Parliament had demonstrated leadership by opting to regulate emerging technologies instead of blocking them.
The legislator noted that technology plays a pivotal role in service delivery and national development, arguing that social media platforms should be governed in a manner similar to traditional media.
He pointed out that mainstream outlets operate under the oversight of the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), stressing that comparable accountability standards should apply to digital platforms.
Mogaka faulted social media companies for what he termed as weak self-regulation mechanisms, saying Parliament had been compelled to intervene due to existing oversight gaps.
He argued that regulation would ensure content creators operate within clear legal and ethical boundaries.
Addressing concerns raised in the petition, the MP said harmful online content poses a threat not only to minors but to society at large.
He warned that inappropriate material and moral misconduct online should not be tolerated under the guise of freedom of expression or adulthood.
Mogaka also raised alarm over cyberbullying and the misuse of anonymity on social media.
He called for mechanisms to guarantee traceability and ownership of digital content, proposing stricter accountability measures for creators.
According to him, individuals who defame others or spread harmful propaganda while hiding behind anonymity should face legal consequences.
The petition before Parliament seeks the establishment of a regulatory framework to govern TikTok operations in Kenya, including safeguards against harmful content and enforceable compliance mechanisms.
Debate on the committee’s report is ongoing, with lawmakers expected to determine whether new legislation or amendments to existing laws will be introduced to formalize oversight of social media platforms operating in the country.