(3 Minutes Read)
Under this proposed framework, TikTok would be mandated to screen its content to ensure compliance with Kenyan laws. Additionally, the platform would be required to submit quarterly reports to the government detailing the material removed.
Kenya’s government has cautioned against a blanket ban on Chinese-owned TikTok over the content circulated on the platform. The authorities are advocating for stricter oversight measures by regulatory bodies instead of a total ban.
TikTok has stirred a fair share of controversy in Kenya, because of its alleged political content. That has compelled a parliamentary panel to look into a complaint urging a ban on social media in the country. Kenya’s interior ministry thinks that the platform is disseminating propaganda, perpetrating fraud, and sharing explicit material.
Kenya’s Ministry of Information and Communication proposed an alternative approach. It is of the view that rather than opting for a TikTok ban, the ministry suggests the implementation of a co-regulation framework.
Under this proposed framework, TikTok would be mandated to screen its content to ensure compliance with Kenyan laws. Additionally, the platform would be required to submit quarterly reports to the government detailing the material removed.
ByteDance, the Chinese company that owns TikTok, has yet to respond to requests for comment. However, the company has previously defended its stance on user privacy amidst similar criticisms globally. TikTok has encountered regulatory scrutiny in numerous countries, particularly in Western nations. Recently, Italy imposed fines on three TikTok units for inadequate content checks, especially concerning material potentially harmful to minors or vulnerable users.
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Meanwhile, in the United States, the Senate passed legislation recently aimed at banning TikTok if ByteDance fails to divest within the next nine to twelve months.
