Punishment for false publication is a maximum fine of Sh5 million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, or both. [Courtesy]The High Court has ruled that publication of false statements, rumours or alarming reports is not a criminal offence. Justice Weldon Korir on Thursday, May 13 ruled that Section 66 of Kenya’s Penal Code, which criminalises false publication, suppresses the freedom of speech. Section 66 (1), which frowns upon rumours and false publications, was first introduced in 2014, when Parliament passed the Security Laws (Amendment) Act, 2014. Punishment for the offence is a maximum fine of Sh5 million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, or both.

Source: Standard Digital May 13, 2021 08:05 UTC