MP Proposes a Bill to Regulate Online Influencers and Digital Experts

Nyaribari Chache Member of Parliament, Zaheer Jhanda, has announced a plan to table a bill in the National Assembly that seeks to regulate the activities of online influencers and content creators in Kenya. The proposed legislation comes at a time when digital platforms have become powerful tools for communication, education, and business — but also breeding grounds for misinformation and unverified expertise.

Under the proposed law, individuals engaging in discussions on specialized or professional subjects through online platforms will be required to possess relevant academic qualifications, at least a degree in the respective area of expertise. Jhanda said this requirement would ensure that information shared with the public, especially on technical or professional matters, is credible, factual, and verifiable.

The MP expressed growing concern over the rising number of social media personalities who, despite lacking formal training or professional certification, have been positioning themselves as experts on sensitive subjects such as health, law, finance, and governance. He cautioned that such unverified advice and commentary have the potential to mislead the public, spread confusion, and, in some cases, cause real harm.

According to Jhanda, the bill will also seek to establish a framework that defines the roles, responsibilities, and ethical standards for influencers and content creators. It will encourage digital accountability, ensuring that online voices contribute constructively to national discourse while respecting professional boundaries and factual integrity.

He emphasized that the aim of the legislation is not to limit freedom of expression but to promote responsible communication in the digital space. Jhanda noted that credible information is key to maintaining public trust in the digital era.

If passed, the law would mark a major step in shaping Kenya’s evolving digital landscape by holding content creators to higher standards of accuracy and professionalism, while also protecting the public from misinformation and exploitation online.