This is why journalists like Mohammed Ali might go to jail for VERY many years

Investigative journalists like KTN’s Mohammed Ali and John Allan Namu have a reason to worry after details of newly proposed security laws emerged.

The security laws amendment bill 2014 seeks to jail or fine journalists who are found guilty of undermining investigations or security operations through their broadcasts or publications.

The bill proposes that such people be jailed for up to three years if found guilty. In addition to the proposed jail term, a journalist could also be fined up to Sh 5 Million if found guilty. The amendment targets any person who without authorization from the national police service broadcasts any information which undermines investigations or security operations relating to terrorism.

The bill also proposes to allow the national security organs to intercept communication for the purpose of detecting, deterring and disrupting terrorism and its related activities. It also established a counter-terrorism center to coordinate national counter-terrorism efforts.

The amendment also targets individuals who publish or distribute obscene or graphic material as well as Kenyans on social media who post hate messages on their timelines.

Other key proposals in the bill include giving the National Intelligence Service power to arrest, detain and interrogate suspected terrorists. These proposals were contained in a report that was handed over to president Uhuru Kenyatta by the national security council last week.