In a startling move, Bob Ndolo, Executive Officer of Bridget Connect Consultancy, has petitioned the National Assembly to ban the widely popular social media app, TikTok. Ndolo asserts that the platform promotes content which erodes cultural and religious morals in Kenyan society, particularly among the youth.
He contends that the platform's rise in popularity among young Kenyans has been paralleled by an increase in videos showcasing violence, hate speech, explicit content, and other offensive behaviors. Such trends, he says, gravely threaten the nation's core values.
However, Ndolo's prime concern isn't just about the content. He pointed out the lack of stringent internet regulations by the Communications Authority of Kenya, making it challenging to oversee content on TikTok. Further, he alleges that the app has compromised children's privacy, resulting in unsettling scandals.
The petitioner paints a grim future if the app remains unchecked. He cautions that the addictive nature of TikTok could see a drop in academic achievements and a surge in mental health issues such as depression and sleep disorders among the youth.
The petition has not been without its critics. Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa emphasized the employment opportunities TikTok has provided for the youth. He stated, "Outright banning would be killing careers of many young people.” Instead, Ichung’wa suggests an approach to regulate user age and content suitability.
Kirinyaga woman representative, Njeri Maina, mirrored Ichung’wa’s sentiments citing the country's high youth unemployment rate. She proposes content regulation instead of an outright ban.
Nominated MP, Irene Mayaka, raised a technical challenge, highlighting that with tools like Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), users can bypass regional restrictions. She called upon parents to play a proactive role in supervising their children's online activities.
Echoing this sentiment, Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie defended TikTok saying the app itself isn't the problem, but rather how users engage with it. "It’s the parents and churches' role to instill morality,” he argued.
Ndhiwa MP, Martin Owino, recognized the complexity of the issue, pointing out the difficulty in legislating morality. He urged for a balanced approach, emphasizing both the need to preserve cultural values and recognize technological advancements.
As the debate rages on, the National Assembly's committee will review the petition, with a verdict expected in the next 60 days.
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