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Kenya to Install Device Management System on Phones
In a move to combat the rising tide of counterfeit technology and phone theft, Kenya’s ICT Cabinet Secretary, Eliud Owalo, Friday, December 1 announced the planned implementation of Device Management Systems (DMS) on all mobile phones within the country. This initiative, spearheaded by the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA), aims to create a safer and more secure mobile ecosystem for all Kenyans.
Addressing the Senate ICT Committee, Owalo assured that the DMS is not intended to invade citizens’ privacy or monitor their communication. He emphasized that its implementation will adhere strictly to the Constitution and relevant laws.
The primary targets of the DMS are two-fold: counterfeit devices and Sim Boxing. Counterfeit phones pose a significant threat, compromising security and network stability. Sim Boxing, on the other hand, is a fraudulent practice where unauthorized individuals terminate and receive international calls through illegal devices, masquerading as legitimate local traffic. This not only harms telecommunications companies but also exposes consumers to potential fraud and security risks.
Owalo described the influx of counterfeit devices as a “huge problem” that necessitates an effective technological solution. “The CA has developed a system that will automatically detect and disable end-user equipment that does not meet set criteria,” he explained. This system, known as the Central Equipment Identity Registry (CEIR), registers all genuine mobile phones and continuously monitors their activity. Irregular devices, including stolen or lost phones, are permanently blocked from the network.
However, the road to implementation hasn’t been smooth. Opponents, including digital rights activists and legal experts, have raised concerns about the potential for mass surveillance and the violation of individual privacy. They argue that the DMS could be misused to track users’ activities and gather sensitive information.
This legal battle reached its climax in April 2023 when the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the CA, clearing the way for the implementation of DMS. However, the debate continues, with concerns lingering about the potential for misuse and the need for robust safeguards.
Owalo highlighted the growing importance of mobile technology in every aspect of Kenyan society. He noted that criminals often exploit these technologies for their own gain, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to impede their activities and protect national security.
The DMS is designed to be user-friendly and minimize inconvenience. The preferred system, known as the IMEI Control Solution, has proven successful in other countries facing similar challenges. It identifies active devices on the network, isolates illegal ones, and maintains a whitelist of legitimate devices.
CS Murkomen Sues Sen. Cherargei for Defamation
Transport and Roads Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has filed a petition against Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei accusing him of defamation following corruption allegations. The petition stems from comments Cherargei made in the Senate, accusing Murkomen of receiving a Ksh.15.3 billion ($100 million) bribe from the Chinese company, China Wu Yi.
The allegations stem from a summons for Murkomen to explain the state of roads and infrastructure in the country. During the Senate session, Cherargei claimed that Murkomen had received half of the alleged bribe, Ksh.7.6 billion, as a deposit. He further stated that Murkomen had traveled to China on several occasions and defended Chinese contractors in the House, leading Cherargei to question why Kenyan contractors were being overlooked.
“I want him to come out and tell the country because whenever he came to insult me in the funeral he defended the Chinese Contractors, who will defend Kenyans who are contractors, or does it mean that Kenyans don’t have the capacity to do roads? Even slashing and unclogging drainages, do we need Chinese to come and slash, where will our young people who do not have jobs go?” Cherargei said.
Cherargei further claimed that he had evidence to support his accusations, including flight manifests and knowledge of the alleged bribe money being deposited in Dubai. He challenged Murkomen to deny the accusations and provide an explanation for his actions.
In response, Murkomen has filed a defamation suit through his lawyers. He has demanded that Cherargei accept responsibility for his statements and issue a public apology within seven days. Murkomen’s lawyers stated that the accusations have damaged his reputation in the eyes of the public.
“The said offensive words tend to lower the reputation of our client in the estimation of the ordinary, just and right-thinking members of the society,” stated the letter.
If Cherargei does not comply with the demands within the stipulated time frame, Murkomen will proceed with legal action. This legal action could involve seeking compensation for reputational damage and potentially requesting an injunction to prevent Cherargei from repeating the allegations.
“Take further notice that if you fail to comply with the terms of this demand within the time specified above, we have firm and unequivocal instructions to institute court proceedings against you without any further reference to you. This will be at your peril as to costs and other incidentals attendant to such court action.”
The accusations have created a tense atmosphere between the two politicians, with both figures exchanging verbal attacks in recent weeks.
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