Omtatah vows to challenge 3 of newly signed bills, cites Constitutional concerns
By Kiprono Keileb, October 23, 2025Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has announced his intention to challenge three of the eight bills recently signed into law by President William Ruto, citing serious constitutional concerns.
“Fellow Kenyans, on October 15, 2025, President William Ruto assented to 8 Bills passed by the National Assembly. I commend the Executive and Parliament for advancing key reforms in tourism, land registration, wildlife conservation, and digital finance,” Omtatah said in a statement posted on his X account on Thursday, October 23, 2025.
Despite acknowledging the positive impact of some of the legislation, Omtatah raised alarm over three specific laws that, in his view, threaten constitutional principles and the sovereignty of the people.
“First, the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act contains vague and overly broad provisions that threaten freedom of expression and access to information. It risks turning Kenya into a surveillance state where online platforms can be shut down without due process. I will challenge the unconstitutional sections in court,” Omtatah said.
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The senator also expressed concern over the National Land Commission (Amendment) Act, 2024, which he argued limits the Commission’s mandate by imposing unlawful timelines on reviewing historical land injustices. “Land justice cannot be rushed or constrained by arbitrary deadlines,” he added.
Finally, Omtatah criticised the Privatisation Act, 2025, claiming it permits the transfer of public land and assets without Senate participation, contrary to Article 68 of the Constitution. “Public land is a sacred trust; it cannot and must not be privatised,” he stated.
Omtatah emphasised that his objections are principled rather than political. “My stand is principled, not political. I support all progressive laws that promote justice, equity, and accountability, but I will firmly resist any legislation that undermines our Constitution or weakens the sovereignty of the people,” he said.
He called on Kenyans to remain united in defending the rule of law. “Let us remain united in defending the rule of law. Kenya must be governed by the Constitution, not by convenience. God bless Kenya,” Omtatah concluded.
The senator’s statement highlights ongoing debates about the balance between legislative reforms and constitutional safeguards, signalling a legal challenge that could shape the interpretation and implementation of the contested laws in the coming months.