Safaricom Denies Allegations Amid Finance Bill Protests
Company’s Assertion
Safaricom has vehemently denied allegations of collaborating with the Kenyan government to disclose customer information amidst escalating arrests during protests against the contentious Finance Bill 2024.
Public Outcry on Social Media
Social media platforms became a battleground of accusations as users claimed Safaricom had assisted law enforcement by providing location data of vocal protesters. This uproar led to calls for a nationwide boycott of Safaricom services, highlighting the intensity of public sentiment on privacy issues.
Commitment to Privacy Laws
In response to the allegations, Safaricom reaffirmed its commitment to protecting customer privacy. The company pointed to Kenya’s robust Data Protection Act, which mandates stringent measures to safeguard personal data from unauthorized access, disclosure, or alteration.
Legal Compliance
Addressing the specific claims, Safaricom clarified that it only shares customer data in compliance with court orders issued by the Kenyan judiciary. The company stated unequivocally that it had not received any such court order related to the allegations in question.
Market Dominance and Competitors
Safaricom remains the dominant player in the Kenyan telecommunications sector, boasting a staggering 44 million active mobile subscriptions as of December 2023, according to data from the Communications Authority of Kenya. In comparison, its closest competitor, Airtel, reported 18 million active subscriptions, while Telkom held 2 million subscriptions during the same period. This market dominance underscores Safaricom’s pivotal role in Kenya’s digital landscape and its responsibility in handling sensitive customer data
As Safaricom navigates allegations of privacy breaches amidst socio-political tensions, the incident serves as a critical juncture for discussions on the intersection of corporate responsibility, consumer rights, and government oversight in the digital age. The outcome of these developments will likely influence public trust in telecommunications providers and shape future debates on data privacy legislation in Kenya and beyond.
